19 Questions With Jamela Acheampong

Photo courtesy of Jamela A Acheampong

by The Candidly Team

Jamela Acheampong is the founder of Kahmune, a high-end shoe brand making heels and flats and sandals in a s t u n n i n g array of inclusive nude shades.

They even have a “find your nude” tool, which might be the most genius innovation in shoes since the invention of the flat.

We’re big fans of Kahmune, and even bigger fans of Jamela.

And since Jamela kindly agreed to answer a few questions for us, we really went for it. We asked her about her favorite book, how she deals with self-criticism, and which Instagram account she’s continually inspired by.

The Candidly Questionnaire

1. What’s something you really like about yourself?

I grew up in a very diverse environment, so I can relate to all kinds of people from all kinds of backgrounds.

2. What is your biggest challenge?

I’m very hard on myself, but I’m working on giving myself more credit for my accomplishments. 

3. What kitchen or house tool do you use daily that’s changed your life?

My NutriBullet. Loving a good smoothie or açaí bowl at the moment.

4. When do you feel most confident?

After a good workout.

5. Are essential oils anything?

They are everything. I recently discovered dryer balls, and I’ve been sprinkling those with lavender oil, which infuses the scent into my clothing.

6. How do you create boundaries?

I think more people, particularly women, need to remember that there is power and joy in saying no. I prioritize that, which means saying no to things I’m not comfortable with or simply don’t feel like doing.

It’s allowed me to set boundaries to protect my mental and emotional well-being.  

7. How do you dampen self-critical thoughts when they get too loud?

It’s too easy to focus on the negative, what we do wrong, or things we should have done better. I remind myself that I’m human and I make mistakes, but what really matters is how I rectify or come back from them.

When you recognize that your actions are coming from a good place, and that you’re willing to learn from your mistakes, it’s easier to forgive yourself. 

8. Describe the most “you” outfit of all time.

A bright colored jumpsuit and booties.

9. What meal can you make the hell out of?

Shrimp fried rice.

10. What book has made the biggest impact on your life?

Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. No surprise there, as I own a footwear brand, but I read it when I was going through a really difficult time with my business and it was almost therapeutic. 

11. Apart from family, what woman do you deeply admire?

Serena Williams. I love how unapologetic she is. She’s a constant reminder to me that strength IS indeed a feminine trait. 

12. Which Insta account is creating the greatest content and why?

@africanstylediary on Instagram. The colors, the fashion, the womanhood— their content is incredible! Being Ghanaian, I love the constant reminders of the beauty and diversity of the African continent. 

13.  What quote or phrase has really stayed with you?

“The sun will always rise again.” Possibly extremely cliché but it keeps me sane.

14.  What’s your most effective form of therapy?

I strongly believe in disconnecting from social media and emails and knowing how and when to “shut off.” Working out has also really saved me this year.

15. What’s your approach to mending conflict with people you work with?

Communication is key. It’s important to discuss and resolve things calmly and respectfully. 

16.  How do you feel about cilantro?

I feel pretty good about it. Especially in a fresh salsa. 

17.  Describe your actual bedtime routine.

Shower. Skincare. Reality TV. Lights out.

18.  What’s your relationship with bangs?

We were entangled for a bit back in 2018. Ended things amiably.

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What is your single favorite:

Wellness product that *actually* works: Tea tree oil.

Lip balm: Carmex.

Jeans brand: Still searching.

Mascara: Revlon.

Robe: I stole it from my mom— It’s bright pink and super soft and warm.

Last-minute gift: Gift card or candles.

Bra: Evelyn Bobbie.

Shampoo: GRN Goods.

Comfortable shoes: Kahmune flats or mules, of course.

Splurge skincare: Sunday Riley.

Drugstore skincare: Deciem.

Everyday bag: Kahmune Tote Bag.

Guilty pleasure TV show: Shahs of Sunset.

Drink: Margarita.

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We have to eat.