Tell us about YOU!

I’m a mama, photographer and human rights lawyer with a penchant for outdoor adventures. I’m equally happy in the middle of a big city as I am in the middle of a forest and my photography reflects that. I grew up in Winnipeg and consider myself a prairie girl at heart, but I currently reside in Toronto and have lived here for the past decade! You will see me babywearing down urban back lanes and hiking trails alike. 

This past summer, we had the most epic #vanlife adventures! When we realized that this global pandemic was going to be the new normal for the foreseeable future, we decided to buy a 1989 Volkswagen Westfalia Camper Van and make the pilgrimage back to Manitoba, camping along the northern shores of Lake Superior. Camping with a baby was actually doable and enjoyable. Living in a tiny van with your family is a serious team-building exercise!

Photography wise, I’m inspired by the late street photographer Bill Cunningham who once quipped that “Fashion is the armor to survive everyday life.” I’m interested in how people suit up for daily life and I love fashion that is both practical and beautiful.

This fall, I returned to my legal practise as a human-rights litigator. I’m learning to navigate video court appearances and working with masks on and windows open IN CANADA (winter is most definitely coming!!!). As such, I’m wrapped in everything wool with my zoom blazers on standby. Never in a million years did I think I would be returning to work under such circumstances! But, we keep calm, mask-up and carry on.

Tell us about your little one!

Our son turned 1 during our #vanlife adventures. He is now 16-months and running around like he didn’t just learn to walk. His name is Kwesi Miles!!! ‘Kwesi’ is a Ghanaian day name for a male child born on Sunday. I was also born on a Sunday - hence, ‘Akosua’.

How do you wear your Kibou: on your waist or crossbody? Both? Inside another bag to take out?

All. Of. The. Above.

When babywearing, I wear on my waist, with the bag on my back. This creates a deliberately minimal look with a deliberately minimal diaper bag!

When not babywearing, I wear it crossbody.

For longer trips, I’ll pack the Kibou inside of a tote bag or backpack.

The Kibou bag was invaluable on our #vanlife adventures but it’s also my go-to choice for short trips in the city. It’s the definition of beautiful and practical! 

What’s in your Kibou? 

• 2-3 diapers 
• Wipes 
• Snacks 
• Sunscreen 
• Fabric face mask & hand-sanitizer 
• ID & Cards 
• Keys 
• Lip balm 
• Phone 

What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve ever packed in your Kibou? 

I’m going to go with the obvious - face masks. 

Best/favorite place to wear your Kibou? 

While wearing our baby on a hike in the woods! 

Does your partner also use the Kibou? 

Yes, but I’m usually using it! 

We first connected with Akosua when she tagged us in a photo with her Kibou shortly after our first Kibous were mailed out. We began following her and immediately fell for her photos--both her perspective and lens--as well as her fashion sense. 

To check out more of her photography hobby that details her urban and outdoor adventures, follow Akosua on Instagram at @akosua.photo!