We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharon Baluku and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharon, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was a thought that had lingered in my mind for many years, as a matter of fact to some degree ever since I was a child. Because of my background and the privileges that I have been granted throughout my life, I have always known that I wanted to pay it forward to others who could benefit. I was born in Uganda in East Africa, and at the age of four, my family and I made a huge transition and moved to Sweden. Growing up there (and later in the US), I was always aware of my luck in life, and the opportunities that I was given because of where I lived. I was surprised to learn that many young girls around the world were not able to attain an education simply because of their gender, and the more I learned, the more I realized that I wanted to do my part to help. So starting Baluku Design had a lot to do with girls’ education – I donate part of the profits to educate girls back home in Uganda. It’s the purpose behind what I do, and what keeps me going when I’m faced with challenges and feel defeated.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
One thing that sets me apart from others is my background. I don’t know many business owners who have been brought up in three different cultures, and can say that these cultures are fundamental parts of who they are. You can definitely find the Ugandan (African), Swedish, and American cultural influences throughout my business, whether that’s in the design process, the products, the materials, or the structure of the business itself. I’m most proud of the fact that through the products and services that I offer, I support the education of girls. Every girl who gets access to reading, mathematics, and critical thinking will be able to expand her potential in life and fulfill her dreams, beyond gender-based expectations. Business-wise, I got where I am today by trying out different paths in life. From early on, I knew that I would end up in a creative field, but I didn’t always know what that would be. I tried different things before deciding that I wanted to design products: I danced for many years, and later thought about fashion – I was even accepted into FIDM, but ultimately decided not to attend. Instead, I decided to do Interior Architecture, which I did for many years. While working in that industry I learned so much, and was exposed to all these great ideas, products, and business operations that it gave me enough confidence to believe that I could do it, too! It was definitely not easy at all, though. Anyone who says that is lying. It can be quite lonely running a business, especially in the beginning when setting up the entire operation. The thing that has helped me to get through these tough times is basically to always remind myself of the why, and to remember my purpose behind Baluku Design – giving back through girls’ education. Also, I have a great support system, like my best friend who I mentioned above. The important lessons I’ve learned along the way is to be patient and to trust the process, to be intentional with everything, and to have a clear vision and stay focused

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Eating at Fig & Olive and Squirl. Drinks and hanging out at Laurel Hardware, Ace Hotel, and Perch. Art at The Broad and MOMA. Concerts at The Greek Theatre and Hollywood Bowl. Day trip to Malibu. Hike in Griffith Park up to the Observatory.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This one goes to my best friend Maria. She is such an amazing person and has been there for me from day one. She is so supportive of my ideas, and sometimes believes in them more than I do. I’m very fortunate and blessed to have her in my life. She is also the talented Graphic and Web Designer behind Baluku Design – see some of her work @mkahdesign on Instagram! In addition, I want to give a shoutout to UniqueLA. This market has been so good to me, and it has helped me to really see my potential and interact with customers in ways that have helped me understand and serve them better.

Website: https://www.balukudesign.com/
Instagram: @balukudesign
Facebook: @balukudesign
Pinterest: @balukudesign
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-baluku-6b703521/

Image Credits
Sharon Baluku

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