About Us

Washa means ‘bring to light’ in Swahili and our mission is to do just that; illuminate spaces while celebrating the culture 🇰🇪 🕯

Each Washa candle is thoughtfully designed to honour the strength, grace, and resilience of Kenyan women, offering a sensory journey through art and scent. 

All our candles are made from 100% soy wax which is natural and renewable. All our wicks are constructed from natural flat cotton threads and are lead and zinc-free for a clean burn. All our oils are phthalate-free, petroleum-free, and cruelty-free!

The Founder

Habari. I’m Gladwell Kabi, the founder of Washa Candles. I started making candles from my home kitchen in 2019 with the intention to create something that cured me of my homesickness. I was born and raised in Kenya, one of the most beautiful places in the world, and living abroad meant sacrificing all those memories. Washa candles is my way of connecting back to my favourite memories of home while celebrating my culture, and most importantly the amazing women who raised me 🇰🇪


I hand pour each Washa Candle with a lot of care, and pride myself on making a beautiful final product that many can appreciate. In collaboration with my amazing team, I am on a simple mission to spark a light 🕯🔥

The Cause

Washa candles are inspired by the unbowed women of Kenya and we’ve made a commitment to amplify their voices and advocate for gender equality. Our mission is to celebrate and protect black women.

We donate 2% of candle sales towards causes and non-profit organizations that protect black women and mitigate oppressive practices.