When I began my education in globalization studies at Gettysburg College, I was already curious about the diverse stories that shape our world.
Growing up in Ethiopia, I was surrounded by rich cultural narratives that often went unnoticed in the broader global conversation. This curiosity only deepened during my time at Gettysburg, where I learned to embrace leadership, critical thinking, and, most importantly, independence.
Those formative experiences inspired me to start Kaba Baby with my childhood best friend. We saw a gap in the market—not only for diverse, culturally inspired children’s products, but also for narratives that celebrate the contributions of people of color whose stories are often left untold.
At Kaba Baby, our mission is to uplift and share the legacies of these unsung heroes. While our clothing is designed for the little ones, the stories we tell are meant for everyone, serving as a bridge that connects generations and cultures.
Being at Gettysburg College played a crucial role in shaping this mission. The College encouraged me to think critically and take charge of my own learning. Through leadership roles, campus activities, and studying abroad, I learned how to navigate different perspectives and craft meaningful narratives—skills that have been instrumental in building Kaba Baby. At Gettysburg, I found the courage to pursue projects independently, much like how I now approach entrepreneurship with Kaba Baby.
Kaba Baby is more than a children’s clothing brand; it’s a storytelling platform. Each piece of clothing carries the narrative of remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our world. By focusing on these unsung heroes, we aim to provide families with stories that inspire curiosity, pride, and a sense of belonging. We believe that celebrating these narratives can empower children and adults alike to see the value in every culture and to recognize that history is composed of countless voices.
My entrepreneurial journey with Kaba Baby is a direct extension of the independence and leadership skills I honed at Gettysburg. In many ways, Gettysburg provided a stepping stone to what Kaba Baby has become: a movement that seeks to bring overlooked stories to the forefront while offering families a chance to connect, learn, and grow together.
Looking back, I’m grateful for how Gettysburg empowered me to explore the intersection of culture, leadership, and storytelling. Kaba Baby is my way of taking that spirit of independence and global thinking into the world. I hope future Gettysburg graduates will find their own paths to uplift diverse voices and, like me, use their education to create something that makes a difference.
by Tyobista Girma ’15
Posted: 02/24/25