Linda Agyen aims to introduce community members on the Palouse to Afrocentric patterns and educate them on cultures they are unfamiliar with through her business, AfroFusion Creations.

Agyen’s focus is to infuse Afrocentric designs and patterns into kids clothing.

“Some people don’t have the opportunity to meet people who aren’t like them, so this is a small opportunity to incorporate different cultures into this environment,” Agyen said. “Most adults are set in their own ways, so starting the kids’ interest early can inspire them to maybe travel to Africa and see the real thing.”

Agyen makes shirts, bloomers, sundresses and onesies that were originally inspired by her 16-month-old daughter, Elizabeth Owusu. She made these designs originally to keep her daughter involved with their African heritage and received several compliments and requests.

After learning to sew at a more professional level, Agyen started AfroFusion Creations with the help of her husband, Derick Boadi.

Agyen and Boadi create all the designs and items they sell from intricate fabric prints regularly used in African cultures. Many of the designs include animal imagery and common ideals of love and family.

“There’s a very small market of kids clothing with any kind of African designs or themes,” Agyen said. “The cultural diversity is very important to us.”

Most of her designs incorporate a pattern called Kente, a regal print that originated in Ghana.

“Kente is very significant to West Africa and it’s associated with black culture,” Agyen said. “Kente represents kinship and it’s a good introduction to Afrocentric culture.”

Nearly all of the orders Agyen fills are custom. The customer is able to pick exactly what aspect of the designs they are drawn to and specify the size and item of clothing, so they can have a completely unique item tailor-made for them.

“We get to showcase our culture and make something just for you,” Boadi said. “If you wear one of our pieces, you’ll probably be the only person in the community wearing that item.”

AfroFusion Creations takes most of their orders Wednesday evenings at the Pullman Farmers Market.

“I think AfroFusion Creations is important because it brings joy to our community,” Boadi said. “The designs are made just for you locally and can help you understand the stories behind the patterns and colors important to African culture.”