Tambuzi Roses – Where Beauty and Nature Meet

Our final flower farm visit took us across the equator to Tambuzi Roses in Nanyuki. The name comes from the founders, Tim and Maggie, and the Swahili word mbuzi, meaning goat. Once a dairy and cattle farm, Tambuzi is now a boutique grower of fragrant garden roses. Their motto? “Stop and Smell the Roses” — and every greenhouse delivered on that promise.

The EMC team was challenged with creating a land art installation in a river that runs through the farm. Divided into three groups, we designed in harmony with nature — using only biodegradable materials and ensuring our installation would eventually return to the earth. It was a beautiful exercise in collaboration and impermanence.

A Fitting Finale – Safari in Ol Pejeta

Our last day in Kenya was spent on safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. In Swahili, safari means “journey,” and this trip was certainly that. After days of creative work with inspiring designers, we turned our attention to Kenya’s incredible wildlife.

From a mother black rhino and her calf, to herds of zebra and buffalo, to a family of elusive lions hiding behind the brush — the experience was humbling. Eventually, we found a majestic herd of about 20 elephants, watching in awe as they moved peacefully through the landscape.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Kenya reminded me why I love floral design. The connections between people, nature, and artistry are everywhere — if you take the time to look. Stepping outside your comfort zone, whether creatively or culturally, is where the real growth happens.

Full Moon over Mount Kenya