MEET THE OWNER
KIRAN JENKINS
a black businessman of trans experience from Washington, D.C.
Kiran’s creative journey is deeply rooted in the memory of his late mother, Tania Jenkins—a woman whose spirit, strength, and style shaped the very foundation of his vision. Tania wasn’t just a maker of clothing; she was a maker of magic. With limited resources but limitless imagination, she had a way of breathing life into fabric, stitching together pieces that spoke louder than words. She taught Kiran that beauty didn’t come from perfection—it came from intention, from authenticity, from heart.
When she was diagnosed with cancer, Tania’s fire never dimmed. Even as she faced the harsh realities of chemotherapy, she remained radiant. She wore her cowboy hats with pride, reclaiming her image and identity on her own terms. For Kiran, these moments are etched in time—his mother striding through hardship with quiet defiance and unshakable style. Her ability to transform pain into power left a permanent imprint on him.
Today, Kiran channels hIS MOMS essence into every thread, every design. Fashion, for him, isn’t just expression, it’s remembrance. It’s a language through which he honors her resilience, her creativity, and her ability to create beauty even in the darkest moments. Through his work, Tania lives on—not just as a muse, but as the soul of his story.
ABOUT THE BRAND
Founded in March 2019, KXJ APPAREL is an urban streetwear brand born in the heart of Washington, D.C., This mission is simple but powerful create something real, something bold, and something deeply rooted in love for his community.
KXJ isn’t just clothing. It’s a safe space stitched into every thread a platform built to uplift, empower, and represent transgender men, especially those navigating the world with courage, pride, and authenticity.
KXJ Apparel is a sanctuary. It exists to hold space for every individual navigating their own transition, whatever that may look like — name changes, surgeries, personal growth, or simply surviving the everyday. We show up for one another in big and small ways, cheering each other on from the sidelines as we each step more fully into our truth.
We believe in the power of self-definition. No one else gets to tell us who we are. That authority belongs to you, and there’s radical strength in that. You are who you say you are. And you deserve to take up space as your fullest, truest self.
HOW WE SHOW UP & TAKE UP SPACE
Photo shoots: Bold visuals that celebrate real trans masculinity and unique personal style.
Networking events: Safe spaces to connect, share, and grow together.
Community outreach: Giving back through service, education, and local partnerships.
Social media presence: Amplifying stories, shining light, and building unity online and offline.
