MAKIA & FRIENDS: Daniela Owusu

MAKIA & FRIENDS: Daniela Owusu

Meet Daniela Owusu, the Lion Queen of Finland. This December, we rolled out with the return of Leo, a print based on Finland’s coat of arms. Leo is our way of reminding what the national symbol truly stands for: courage, solidarity, and sisu, that specific kind of perseverance in the face of adversity. And if you ask us, Daniela is the personification of these qualities. The 21-year-old influencer is well known here for being crowned as the 2024 Lucia of Finland – and for standing against the racist outburst from those who couldn’t accept a non-white Lucia.

Tell us a bit about your personal style.

It’s hard to put a label on it, because my style depends on the day. Some days are more about streetwear, while others lean on the elegant and feminine side. But I do have a couple of bow-tie tops that are my staples. So, that’s the cute and feminine side – though most of the colors I wear are black and white.

You were recently the model for the Leo Collection. When you think of the Finnish Lion, what comes to mind?

Finland, Finnishness, and sisu. Also, the Finnish ice hockey team! They always put in the work and show a lot of courage and sisu. However, during the recent years I’ve also seen the symbol used in more negative contexts, so there’s also that – even though I hate to say it. But still, it’s mostly positive things that come to mind.

This December, you were invited to the Independence Day Reception at the Presidential Palace. How was it – and did you get to meet any personal heroes?

It was cool to get invited at such a young age. There were many fascinating people, and I got to meet Sanna Marin, the former Prime Minister. We chatted for a couple of minutes, and it was amazing to see what a kind and empathetic person she is.

And how about the Presidential Punch?

Very strong. I had a sip from my boyfriend’s cup, and it was hard to taste anything other than the alcohol. Maybe some people like it? Not my cup of tea, though.

A year ago, you were crowned the Lucia of Finland. A lot of people know the negative side of it, but what else has the year brought with it?

Mostly, it’s been a good year. I’ve had the chance to do a lot of exciting things that I’d been wanting to try for a long time – like social media stuff and music. So, the exposure also opened a lot of doors.

Any plans for the future?

I’d love to make music my career. Right now, I’m also doing a lot on social media, and it would be great to combine the two somehow. But if I’d had to pick one thing, it would be music. Music’s always been the thing for me – it’s something I never want to give up on.