Des Owusu, a senior studying management information systems, founded Manup Archives to offer high-quality, simple clothing aimed at young people. His vision extends beyond just providing clothes; he wants to inspire his customers to become better versions of themselves.
“We want to provide clothes that are meaningful,” Owusu explained.
The brand’s first collection, launched in September 2024, featured 40 pieces, which sold out within two weeks. Building on that success, Manup Archives released part one of its second collection, the Endurance collection, on February 7, 2025. This collection includes six designs of sweatshirts and hats, with a broader selection compared to the first. Additionally, a new workwear jacket is set to be released in the coming weeks.
Owusu strives to keep the prices accessible so that more people can enjoy the brand’s offerings.
The clothing is crafted using 460 GSM, 100% cotton sweatshirt material, along with other high-quality materials sourced overseas. To ensure the garments meet quality standards, multiple manufacturers in Owusu’s hometown of Columbus inspect the clothing. Owusu and his business partners found these manufacturers through online reviews.
Nana Oduro, who is pursuing an MBA with a concentration in finance, played a significant role in promoting the brand both online and offline before its launch. He also helped find manufacturers for the clothing.
“We built strong relationships and visited their spaces to ensure the best quality before deciding to work with them,” Oduro shared.
Kendrick Frempong, a senior studying exercise physiology, is looking forward to seeing more variety in future collections, such as long-sleeve T-shirts. He recently purchased a hoodie from the latest collection, which he praised for its excellent quality.
While the student organization Manup, a Bible study group that began in fall 2023, shares the same values as Manup Archives, the two entities are not affiliated financially. Owusu leads both, but they operate separately.
“Everything was just reinvested back into the brand,” Oduro noted.
The core values of Manup Archives — strength, courage, purpose, and integrity — are derived from the Bible and are reflected in the daily lives of its members.
“These are traits that guide us to live significant lives, according to biblical principles,” Owusu said.
The Endurance collection is inspired by the theme of resilience, with the designs meant to encourage customers to endure whatever challenges they may face. This theme draws from historical and biblical figures who exemplified perseverance, such as Harriet Tubman, whose determination led to the liberation of many enslaved individuals.
“Black people have endured a lot, and I feel like this theme is a symbol of hope,” Frempong added.
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