FROM A PERSONAL CONCERN TO A SHARED STRUGGLE, I CREATED A PRODUCT AND A BRAND called MUKENA /moo-k-na/, A PRAYER SET FOR MUSLIM WOMEN ON THE GO.
Category
Creative Entrepreneurship, Photography
Type
Business, Brand
Project Outcome
Product, Brand
Year
2025
Featured
Mukena is a compact, thoughtfully designed prayerwear set created to support Muslim women navigating daily life outside the home. Consisting of a lightweight two-piece garment and a foldable prayer mat inside a small pouch with a keychain attachment, the set is designed for portability — fitting effortlessly into everyday bags without adding bulk. Made from breathable, comfortable materials that are easy to fold and carry, Mukena allows for a seamless transition between work, study, travel, social activities, and prayer.
More than just a practical object, Mukena is rooted in the spirit of sisterhood, accessibility, and everyday faith within Muslim women’s communities. The project was selected as part of the Future 50 by the University of the Arts London, alongside initiatives such as Reel Food and Mama's Brick. Through both functionality and community, Mukena aims to accompany Muslim women wherever they go — encouraging and making space for prayer in everyday life.
Through conversations with UK-based Muslim women aged 18–44, a clear pattern emerges: many are constantly outside during prayer times, yet feel anxious and unprepared when it comes to praying in public spaces. With 96% expressing guilt over missed prayers and 74% lacking access to suitable prayerwear, the challenge is not willingness—but accessibility. This shared experience highlights the need for solutions that seamlessly integrate faith into everyday life.
a shared struggleMuslim women in the UK represent a significant yet underserved market, with 86% (UK Census) feeling overlooked by mainstream fashion (Little Black Book, 2019) despite contributing to an estimated £300 million in spending during Ramadan and Eid (EQUI, 2025). At the same time, 75% report returning products that fail to meet their modestwear needs (MediaCat UK, 2024)—highlighting a clear gap in thoughtful, functional design. This is not just a market opportunity, but a call for more intentional products that truly reflect and support their daily lives.
Why Mukena Matters
What distinguishes Mukena is its balance between function and intention. The design prioritises ease of use — quick to unfold, simple to wear, and just as easy to pack away — while still maintaining modest coverage and a clean, minimal aesthetic. Each element is considered to reduce friction in the act of praying outside: no heavy fabrics, no complicated folding, and no need for additional items. It is created to support Muslim women who may not always wear prayer-ready clothing, offering a reliable and discreet solution wherever they are.
Beyond practicality, Mukena carries emotional and cultural significance. It addresses a shared experience among Muslim women who often feel unprepared or hesitant to pray in public spaces, transforming that moment into one of confidence and calm. By making prayer more accessible, Mukena supports consistency in spiritual practice while aligning with modern lifestyles —helping women feel connected to their faith without compromise.