ABOUT MORIN.O

Our Brand Story

My journey into fashion was anything but conventional. I began my career as an executive pharmacist, yet I was always deeply drawn to both science and the arts. That passion led me, in 1992, to co-found an art décor and gifts company with my husband, where I immersed myself in curating and promoting indigenous Nigerian crafts. My very first exhibition in 1994 was a resounding success, affirming that my path belonged in the creative world.

From there, I founded Lifestrokes Gallery in 1995, carrying Nigerian and African art across borders—from Cairo to Miami—sharing our culture with the world. Over the years, that experience shaped my vision and ignited a desire to create something more personal, something wearable, that still celebrated the artistry of Africa.

In 2013, I launched Morin.O Designs in my Lagos atelier: a brand dedicated to reimagining traditional craftsmanship through contemporary leather accessories. The recognition that followed, from features in HuffPost to awards and international showcases, has been humbling—but more than accolades, what drives me is the chance to tell our stories through design.

Every collection we create at Morin.O carries with it the spirit of heritage, innovation, and the resilience of African creativity. My mission has always been to honor where we come from while crafting pieces that stand confidently on the global stage

Morin Obaweya — Founder / Creative Director

FEATURED MEDIA APPEARANCES

1. CNN MARKETPLACE AFRICA

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/21/world/video/marketplace-africa-nigeria-leather-industry-luxury-goods-spc

2. DIASPORA CENTRAL SPOTLIGHT FEAT. MORIN O. HOUSTON

PRESS MENTIONS

  1. LEATHER BUSINESS WILL LIFT YOUTHS OUT OF POVERTY – ENTREPRENEUR
    https://leadership.ng/leather-business-will-lift-youths-out-of-poverty-entrepreneur/
    November 2022
  2. PULSE.NG: Nigerian Luxury bag brand launches in LA
    April 2016
    http://pulse.ng/fashion/morin-o-nigerian-luxury-bag-brand-launches-in-la-id4687151.html

  3. GENEVIEVE MAGAZINE: Nigerian Luxury Leather Bag Designer Morin. O. Launches At Now Showroom L.A
    February 2016
    http://genevieveng.com/nigerian-luxury-leather-bag-designer-morin-o-launches-at-now-showroom-l-a/

  4. MADAME SOLANGE
    February 2016
    http://madamesolange.com/?s=morin+o

  5. THE HUFFINGTON POST: Nigerian Entrepreneur Maureen Obaweya Brands Her Luxury Designs With Developing World Market Flavors
    April 2015
    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-wisenthal/nigerian-entrepreneur-mau_b_6708928.html

  6. BUSINESS DAY - Launch of our Pelts of Distinction Collection
    July 2014
    http://www.businessdayonline.com/2014/07/maureen-obaweya-creating-exceptional-leather-accessories-for-nigerian-and-global-markets

Other Mentions