I have always been curious, intrigued and fascinated about our global diversities and commonalities. Travelling the globe has taught me how to connect not just spiritually, artistically but also economically. I design from my quaint studio in Victoria BC. Canada and my samples and production are all produced in Vietnam. I’m able to connect my business of design and art with a small business co-op that is located around the world from my studio. I work with the finest tailors that are artisans in their own right and we both mutually work together in growing both of our business and relationship in a globally responsible way. Although we are both worlds apart we share pride, passion, work ethics and family.

I’m a single mum with two impressionistic sons (Matthew and Jack), a designer and artist, a business woman that is balancing my passions, dreams, aspirations and inspirations. My clothing line Tangerine Jill is my palette of expression and aspiration for design/art and business. My two sons are my inspiration and my passport stamps in life.

I think it’s important to always challenge your inner self and your strengths- a confirmation that you’re living and not just existing. To dare yourself and take a little a risk beyond your expectations and living your dreams.Living and experiencing the organic growth and development of my small business has been a dream come true. Another dream outside my work was to climb Kilimanjaro. After staring at all of my books of Africa on my coffee table, I decided to travel to Africa and climb Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This was not going to be no easy task as I had never tented or camped before, I was traveling alone and I had not properly trained for this climb! My youngest son asked “Mum, do you really think this is a wise decision?” Today my sons ask, “When can we climb Kilimanjaro”?

I spent ten days on Kilimanjaro and reached the summit on the eighth day and camped at the crater/ glacier about 300 feet from the summit. It was an amazing life experience and a step out of the ordinary and a walk into the extraordinary. Here are some of the photos from my trip to Africa

Jill Pemberton