What does it take to turn a genius idea into a patented product on store shelves? On a special live episode of Unapologetic Nomads, host Queen Nomad sat down with educators, creators, and inventors Akosua (founder of Akosua Creations) and Kira Stevenson (also known as Oya).

Together, they shared their journey of inventing WigGO—a revolutionary, collapsible wig holder—navigating the male-dominated world of engineering and patenting, and showcasing high-fashion designs built for real women.

1. The Spark: Meeting in the UAE & Choosing to "Just Do It"

Both Akosua and Kira started their careers in education before transitioning into product engineering and design. Having met in Florida before moving to the UAE to teach, the two bonded over sisterhood, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

"Creative people are always thinking... But the good thing about our connection is we decided: I’m going to stop saying 'woulda, shoulda, coulda' and I’m going to do it. You’re not going to know until you do it."

— Akosua

2. Solving a $13.6 Billion Problem: What is WigGO?

Traditional wig mannequins and styrofoam heads are bulky, heavy, difficult to travel with, and prone to trapping moisture and oils, leading to mold growth.

Seeing a gap in the $13.6 billion wig industry, Akosua and Kira designed WigGO—a portable, hygienic, lightweight, and fully collapsible wig holder.

• Lightweight & Portable: Weighs around 3 lbs and collapses down to fit inside a handbag or tote.

• Hygienic Material: Made from polycarbonate and ABS plastic to prevent mold, mildew, and oil buildup.

• Versatile Use: Designed for cancer patients, alopecia sufferers, entertainers, travelers, and everyday fashion enthusiasts.

3. The Blueprint: Step-by-Step Product Development & Patenting

Bringing a physical hardware product to market is a multi-year, capital-intensive process. Kira laid out the exact steps they took to go from concept to a patented, injection-molded product:

1. Market Research & Niche Identification: Define your target audience and understand existing product flaws.

2. 2D Technical Drawings: Precision drafting where every millimeter is calculated.

3. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Files: Creating 3D digital renderings using algorithms.

4. 3D Printing & Initial Stress Testing: Producing rapid prototypes to test mechanical joints and structural integrity.

5. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Machining: Carving prototype parts out of solid blocks of Polycarbonate and ABS plastic for advanced functional testing.

6. Injection Molding: The final, most expensive phase involving custom metal molds for mass production.

Overcoming Industry Gatekeeping

As Black female inventors in a male-dominated engineering space, they faced financial disparities, language barriers when managing overseas manufacturing, and complex patent application rejections.

Their perseverance paid off when they pitched WigGO at Black Girls Venture (BGV), placing 2nd across three grueling rounds of competition and securing crucial grant funding.

4. Purpose Beyond Fashion: Tiny Triumphs

Invention didn't stop with WigGO. Inspired by the birth of her daughter Malia at just 29 weeks weighing 1 lb 12 oz, Kira launched Tiny Triumphs - a dedicated adaptive clothing and scrapbooking line designed specifically for premature infants and their families.

5. Part 2: Akosua Creations & Modest High Fashion

During the second half of the interview, Akosua showcased her boutique fashion brand, Akosua Creations (Lore Akosua).

The Design Philosophy

• Versatility & Quality: Blending Western tailored aesthetics, African heritage (incorporating Adinkra symbols), and Gulf-style modesty

• Real Curves: Specifically patterned for women sizes 8 through 18, focusing on flattering silhouettes.

• Exclusivity: Limited runs of ~5 pieces per design so customers enjoy unique wardrobe pieces.

Featured Pieces Shown:

• The Minimalist Convertible Dress: A 4-way wearable, body-sculpting full-length dress available in beige and forest green.

• Snapback / Sheeting Cotton Shirts: Inspired by high-end menswear fabrics that retain sheen and softness over time.

• Denim & Adinkra Kimonos/Kaftans: Heavyweight denim structured coats and kimonos featuring ancestral Adinkra symbols embroidered on the back.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

1. Research First: Validate your market and know your exact customer before spending capital.

2. Expect a Long Runway: Quality product engineering takes months to years—embrace the process.

3. Build Community: Lean on networks like Black Girls Venture and find collaborative partners who complement your strengths.

4. Win for Your Community: True entrepreneurial success comes from creating value that lifts others up