ABOUT
MALAIKA COLLECTIVE
Malaika Collective (formerly known as Malaika Apparel Co.) was founded in 2020 by Rita Bunatal, a creative visionary with a passion for empowering African and Black creatives. Rita's vision was to create a space where artists and entrepreneurs could come together to collaborate, learn, and thrive and was born out of Malaika Apparel Co,, which was started in 2015 while she was a junior in college. Today, it has transformed into Malaika Collective: a dynamic and inclusive community that offers a range of services and resources to help creatives of all backgrounds bring their ideas to life. From creative production and branding to marketing and community building, we are committed to helping our clients achieve their goals and realize their full potential. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, Malaika Collective is here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Rita Bunatal:
Founder & Creative Director
Rita Bunatal is the visionary behind Malaika Collective. With a Bachelor of Science in Communication Management and Design, with a focus on Corporate Communications, and minors in African Diaspora Studies & Communication Studies, Rita possesses a unique blend of skills and knowledge. She's not just a founder; she's a trailblazer.
Rita's commitment to challenging stereotypes was evident during her college years when she initiated the viral photo campaign, "The Real Africa: Fight the Stereotype." This impactful campaign, featured on CNN, BET, USA Today, and more, dismantled common misconceptions about Africa.
Prior to Malaika Collective, Rita's journey led her to Marketing & Innovation at SheaMoisture Hair Care, where she contributed to award-winning collections and the launch of the "How To" video series. She furthered her expertise as a Marketing Manager at Come Back Daily, the world's first CBD wellness center and experiential retail shop in NYC, bridging the gap between consumers and products.
Rita's unwavering dedication to community empowerment and reshaping narratives fuels Malaika Collective's mission. Her commitment to innovation, her passion for creativity, and her belief in the power of unity have been the driving forces behind this transformative platform. Rita Bunatal's legacy is one of empowerment, creativity, and unity, and it's woven into the very fabric of Malaika Collective.
Connect with her on LinkedIn!
