Inspired
People, Places and Things
…with Virtue Shine
Virtue Shine is an inspirational creative, businesswoman, and designer who has made her home here in the West of Ireland. You may remember Virtue from our print issue in which we shared the beautiful Barna based shop Ro and Vee which she co-owns, or perhaps you know her sustainable slow-fashion brand Emerald and Wax, but we at GALWAYnow wanted to take a little time to highlight Virtue’s individual inspirations, personal experiences and a few things you might not know about her.
Describe yourself in three words:
Ambitious, Gorgeous, Funny
What is something our readers might not know about you?
I grew up in Ghana and then moved to the Bronx, New York when I was 15. I consider myself to be American as well as African and more recently, Irish. I think when you move around a lot you realize that identity has a lot to do with where you are as much as nationality and ethnicity.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Starting Emerald & Wax is certainly at the top of my list. When I bought my first sewing machine it was a mere dream to get to the point of having my own fashion brand.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is my grandmother. As a child, I saw her work really hard and that gave me the belief that if I was prepared to invest myself fully in what I love, good things would surely come my way.
Tell us something you love about Galway:
Galway is grand – no it’s not … It’s mighty! I love the ocean and I love how it’s so accessible here. In New York the beach was two and a half hours away either by car or via an arduous train trek. I especially like going for walks on the beach in winter. I feel it is a great place to chat to all those who have left us. I think it’s like a kind of portal.
So there you have it, a GALWAYnow exclusive glimpse into Virtue’s inspirations, experiences and love of this city! You can keep up to date with all of Virtue’s marvellous work on her instagram @emeraldwaxbyvirtueshine or pop into her vibrant store Ro and Vee @roandvee by the sea in Barna to browse her colourful and eco-conscious world.
