Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Canan Kaba. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Canan, thanks for sitting with us today to chat about topics that are relevant to so many. One of those topics is communication skills, because we live in an age where our ability to communicate effectively can be like a superpower. Can you share how you developed your ability to communicate well?
This is an easy one, For pretty much my entire adult life, I have communicated with people who did not speak the same first language as me. In order for me to effectively communicate with the people around me, the people I worked with, studied with and made friends with, I had to be very thoughtful about my articulation, vocabulary and general mannerisms. This resulted in me speaking less, listening more and confirming information at the end of my conversations.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My name is Canan Kaba (say “Jah-nan Ka-ba”), and I’m deeply passionate about the world of handmade tile and artisanal craftsmanship. As the Growth and Marketing Manager at Clay Imports, I have the privilege of sharing this passion with others while driving the growth of our brand.
What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to connect with people, firms, and organizations who share our appreciation for the artistry and authenticity of handmade tile. Every day, I get to build relationships, forge partnerships, and collaborate on projects that celebrate the beauty of craftsmanship and the stories behind each tile.
At Clay Imports, we’re not just selling tiles; we’re sharing a narrative of community, tradition, and craftsmanship. Our products are more than just materials; they’re pieces of art that reflect the skill and dedication of talented artisans. What sets us apart is our commitment to preserving these traditions while also embracing innovation and creativity.
As for what’s new, we’re constantly exploring new avenues for growth and expansion. From collaborating with local designers to launching innovative product lines, we’re always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of handmade tile. Currently, I am excited about our collaboration with Jaymie Campbell of White Otter Design in Canada on our beadwork-inspired tile collection. Together, we’ve been crafting tiles that reflect the intricate beauty of traditional beadwork.
Additionally, I feel incredibly fortunate to have built with my amazing team and family our residence and studio in San Miguel de Allende, where I now operate and live. This picturesque setting not only inspires creativity but also provides a unique backdrop for our work and collaborations. In fact, we’re thrilled to kick off our tile travel retreats in May, right here in San Miguel de Allende. These retreats will offer participants a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture and craftsmanship of our community while honing their own skills in our stunning studio environment.
In summary, Clay Imports isn’t just a business; it’s a community of artisans, designers, and enthusiasts who share a love for craftsmanship and creativity. I’m grateful to be a part of this journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes us next.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful:
Adaptability: Throughout my career, being adaptable has been crucial. Whether it was transitioning between roles within Clay Imports or relocating to different countries, from Germany, Turkey, the U.S, and Mexico, the ability to adapt to new environments and circumstances has allowed me to thrive. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace change and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Cultivating a mindset of adaptability will enable you to navigate obstacles with resilience and creativity.
Relationship Building: Building and nurturing relationships has been instrumental in my professional journey. From forging partnerships with clients and collaborators to fostering a supportive network within the industry, strong relationships have opened doors and facilitated meaningful collaborations. I encourage individuals starting their journey to prioritize relationship building. Actively engage with peers, mentors, and industry professionals, and invest time in cultivating genuine connections. Building a strong network can provide invaluable support, guidance, and opportunities along the way.
Continuous Learning: The willingness to continuously learn and evolve has been a driving force in my growth. In a dynamic and ever-changing industry, staying abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices is essential. Whether through formal education, professional development courses, or self-directed learning, committing to lifelong learning fosters personal and professional growth. My advice to those at the beginning of their journey is to embrace curiosity and remain open to new ideas and experiences. Seek out opportunities for learning and skill development, and never underestimate the value of expanding your knowledge base.
In summary, adaptability, relationship building, and continuous learning have been foundational to my journey. My advice to individuals early in their journey is to cultivate these qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge. Embrace change, prioritize building meaningful relationships, and commit to lifelong learning. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve success in your chosen path.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was allowing me to take a gap year after high school to travel and work in Mexico alongside my best friend. This experience was transformative and played a significant role in shaping who I am today.
At first, the idea of taking time off was met with resistance from my father, who had always prioritized hard work and academic achievement. He was not entirely on board with the idea and never directly discussed it with me. However, his silent approval came in the form of purchasing my flight ticket, which spoke volumes.
For my father, the concept of taking time off was foreign. He had always been dedicated to his work and believed strongly in the value of education and pursuing a promising career path immediately after high school. He harbored hopes that his daughters would follow suit and become overachievers in their academic pursuits.
Despite his initial apprehension, my parents ultimately supported my decision to take a gap year. Their trust in my judgment and willingness to let me explore and discover my path independently was incredibly impactful. It taught me the importance of following my instincts, taking risks, and seizing opportunities, even when they deviate from the conventional path.
The experience of traveling and working in Mexico during that gap year was invaluable. It broadened my horizons, exposed me to new perspectives, and instilled in me a sense of independence and resilience. Most importantly, it reinforced the importance of pursuing passions and experiences that bring fulfillment and joy, even if they diverge from societal expectations.
Looking back, I am immensely grateful for my parents’ unwavering support and the freedom they afforded me to embark on that transformative journey. It taught me the power of taking calculated risks, embracing uncertainty, and forging my own path in life
Contact Info:
- Website: www.clayimports.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayimports
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clayimportsaustin/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-canan-kaba-0a6a49132
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clayimports
