(shop.inspiration) safari fusion

To say that I am a little obsessed with Africa right now is an understatement. You see, if all goes well, I am heading there for the first time late next month. I'm thrilled to bits as I will be writing a travel piece on my experience too. Ever since the idea started to germinate I've been gravitating towards everything to do with this continent - from the photography of Peter Beard to travel destinations such as The Giraffe Manor. So it's no surprise that I got excited to find Safari Fusion recently. Here is more about the owner of the online shop, Kellie Shearwood.

Which five words best describe you? Adventurous, energetic, passionate, determined, perfectionist.
What was your first job and what path have you taken since then? My first job was as a functions waitress at The Victorian Arts Centre, I worked casually whilst studying Travel & Tourism at William Angliss College. I then joined the travel industry working in operations support for a New Zealand wholesale company. Over the years I worked as a Senior Travel Consultant at various wholesale travel companies. However it was in my role as a Product Manager for a leading global luxury travel company that planted the seed for the career path I am on today.
What’s your proudest achievement? Leaving a job I absolutely loved to pursue my dream of running my own business.
What’s been your best decision? Marrying my husband of course!! Also buying and renovating our current house.
Who inspires you? It’s is not really who, but what inspires me. I am a visual person, so it is my surroundings that inspire me most particularly when I am travelling. Architecture, interior design, landscape, and also the interesting people that I meet along the way.
What are you passionate about? Travel, particularly to Africa. I am always thinking about my next trip to the continent! Collecting African art – traditional and contemporary. Photography: I love taking photos on my travels, especially of people and wildlife.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt? To never give up, no matter what.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Nelson Mandela.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? To open a Safari Fusion store where I can showcase larger African design pieces and safari inspired furniture along with homewares and lifestyle products.
What are you reading? Alexander McCall Smith’s The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series. I have just finished the latest one ‘Tea Time for the Traditionally Built’. I just adore the tales of Mma Ramotswe.

Images courtesy of Safari Fusion