“I used to walk home from church barefoot.”
Growing up in West Africa, finding comfortable, stylish shoes in my size was nearly impossible. I’d often wear a pair to church, only to end the day walking home barefoot because of the pain.

When I moved to the U.S. over two decades ago, I hoped things would change — but they didn’t. I bounced from store to store, settling for what fit, not what I loved. And after having my beautiful daughters, my shoe size grew from a 9.5 to an 11, making options even harder to find.

But my fashion sense had evolved — and my standards had, too. I didn’t want to compromise anymore. I began dreaming of a brand that spoke to women like me: women with long, wide feet, bold style, and no desire to shrink themselves.

Thanks to time, fate, and grace, I found the perfect partners — a talented shoe designer and an outstanding manufacturer. Together, we created The Essential Collection: bold, beautiful, comfortable shoes that finally feel like home.

This is just the beginning. A special event collection and hand-picked accessories are coming next — all for women with unique feet and unapologetic confidence.

– Nina Fombuh
Founder & CEO, House of Annika