Serena Williams Design Crew: Our Culture, Our Stories
Behind the Design
Designers Mika, Toussaint and Emiko share how their individual stories influence their vibrant designs.
Layers Of History
As a first-generation African American, Mika Osoro knew that becoming a designer would be a step off the traditional path her Kenyan family expected. Mika’s decision to enter design and join the Serena Williams Design Crew was a leap of faith—one of many she’s taken in her career. Each leap in Mika’s journey adds its own flavor to her designs.
“My journey as a first-generation person of color, there are a lot of layers,” she says.
Mika Osoro
Footwear Materials Designer
Reflecting Real People
In his hometown of New Orleans, Toussaint King was a community advocate, helping neighbors and friends find jobs and opportunities. These people are his passion—real people with real stories.
So when he designed the KoKo sandal, Toussaint thought about Serena’s experience not just as a tennis player, but as a woman and a mother.
“Serena is a protector, a provider, a strong Black woman, so I wanted to put details like that into the designs.”
Toussaint King
Footwear Designer
Laying the Foundation
Emiko McCoy has worked in the fashion industry and was drawn to Serena’s mission to create a more inclusive future. With her industry knowledge, Emiko sees her expertise and skillset as a means to pave the way and open up opportunities for the next generation of designers.
“Serena definitely inspired me. I think it’s very important to see someone that looks like you but then also be able to pay it forward for the next generation.”
Emiko McCoy
Apparel Designer
See how Mika, Toussaint and Emiko’s stories show up in their designs and shop the SWDC collection.
The Serena Williams Design Crew is a collective of dreamers, innovators and creators. Each year, a group of apprentices partner with Serena and Nike—with the aim to develop and inspire the next generation of talent. The result? Game-changing work and a brighter future for design.
The Serena Williams Design Crew is a collective of dreamers, innovators and creators. Each year, a group of apprentices partner with Serena and Nike—with the aim to develop and inspire the next generation of talent. The result? Game-changing work and a brighter future for design.