Three Months of Imbali: A Journey of Faith and Creativity

It’s hard to believe that it has already been three months since I opened the doors of Imbali to the public. What a journey it has been!

When I began, I stepped out in complete faith. There were days in the beginning when I questioned myself — Was I really serious? Did I know what I was doing? — and moments when I simply had no clue what the next step would be. But each day, I woke up, got ready, and went to work. Through this journey with Jesus, I’ve learned that faith means trusting, obeying, and persevering until we see things come to life.

Over these months, so many people have passed through Imbali. Some came to buy products, others stopped in with questions and curiosity. Many came simply to admire, take photos to share with friends, or to relive memories of their own weaving experiences or those of parents and grandparents. Every one of these moments has been a blessing to me. My heart is full knowing that stepping out in faith has brought smiles and connection to others.

It hasn’t only been adults, either. Children — sometimes as young as four or five — have tugged their parents inside just to watch me demonstrate how the loom works. Those little moments of wonder have been such a joy and remind me why I love what I do here at Imbali.

What does Imbali mean?

One of the most common questions I’m asked (besides whether Imbali is my own or if I work for someone else) is about the meaning of the name Imbali. The word holds deep significance for me:

1. Flower 🌸Imbali means flower. This reminds me that God has planted me in this space, like a flower in the heart of the city. To grow and bloom, a flower must be nourished, and in the same way, I must stay rooted in God in order to flourish as He intends.

2. Blossom A flower is not only meant to exist but to blossom, radiating beauty that draws others in. This isn’t because of my own strength — though hard work is needed — but because God works in and through me. Blossoming means bearing fruit, reflecting peace, joy, and hope to those who enter Imbali. Opportunities to share my story, to encourage others, and to pray with those considering their own creative journeys have shown me just how much God uses even the smallest interactions.

3. History Each of us carries a history — sometimes beautiful, sometimes painful — but what matters is how we respond to that story and what we do with it. Imbali carries a history of faith, freedom, healing, and restoration. My own story, along with the history of the women I’ve worked with through Creative Hands, continues to shape this space. Sharing those stories with customers deepens the connection, weaving together past and present with every interaction.

Looking Ahead

Life at Imbali is a life of trust — trust in God who gave me this vision and who continues to open doors. Every purchase, every visitor, every conversation is a reminder of His faithfulness.

As you read this, my prayer for you is that your own life will be one that blooms, planted and nourished, and that your story will inspire others to find meaning in theirs. May you step out in courage, give voice to the creativity within you, and discover the beauty of what you are called to create.

Thank you for being part of this journey. 💙