Behind the Brand: An Interview with Danika Lee, Founder of Akua Swim

When you encounter a brand like Akua Swim, it’s impossible not to feel the thought and care behind every detail. This isn’t just swimwear—it’s an invitation to connect with nature, embrace confidence, and celebrate community. Recently, I had the chance to take Akua Swim’s stunning designs to Aruba for a photoshoot. It was the perfect backdrop—beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and that laid-back island vibe. 

I wanted to learn more about what makes this brand so special, so I reached out to Danika Lee, the founder of Akua Swim, to get her thoughts on the journey, the vision, and what’s next for the brand.

“Akua Swim isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you feel: empowered, connected, and confident.” 

From Passion to Purpose: The Story Behind Akua Swim

What sparked the idea for Akua Swim, and how has the journey surprised you so far?

The idea for Akua Swim came from a deep connection to nature and my growing urge to explore the world. I’ve always been drawn to water and the freedom it brings. As I traveled more, I realized how those experiences shaped my perspective. Akua became a way to blend that sense of adventure with a desire to create swimwear that’s meaningful and empowering. What’s surprised me the most is how quickly the community has grown and how eager people are to bring Akua into their own adventures.

When you look back, is there a moment that made you think, “This is why I’m doing this”?

Absolutely—our first women’s wellness day in September 2024 was that defining moment. Watching women come together, sharing in such a powerful space, I knew Akua was more than swimwear; it was a community. It was a day where the energy was tangible, and I saw firsthand how Akua isn’t just about the pieces we create, but about empowering women and creating meaningful connections. That day reminded me why I put my heart into this brand.

How do you keep your designs feeling both fresh and timeless?

I keep my designs feeling both fresh and timeless by drawing inspiration from nature’s elegance and adapting it with intention. Each piece blends minimalism with artistry, capturing a timeless quality that transcends trends. I design with different shapes and figures in mind, ensuring that each piece highlights the best parts and addresses common fit issues. The TIMELESS collection is a core part of this, offering a growing selection of classic styles and colors that remain relevant year after year. While this collection anchors the brand, I also introduce special pieces over time—more dynamic designs that bring a touch of excitement while still staying true to Akua’s essence.

"The feeling of overcoming challenges and seeing the impact of Akua Swim has been unmatched. We’re excited to create more opportunities to connect and support our community."

Living the Akua Swim Lifestyle

If your swimwear could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it go and why?

I’d love to see Akua Swim in the quiet, hidden coves of the Mediterranean or the untouched beaches of Costa Rica—places where nature’s beauty speaks for itself. These are the kinds of places that mirror the values of Akua: raw, beautiful, and unhurried.

Imagine Akua Swim as a person—what’s their vibe, and what’s their perfect day?

Akua would be the friend who embodies effortless grace, timeless elegance, and a curious spirit. She’s grounded in her values, yet always open to new adventures, finding beauty in both the grand and the simple moments. Her perfect day begins with a peaceful sunrise swim, followed by fresh juice enjoyed in the warmth of the morning sun. After a sailboat ride with close friends to a secluded private island, they explore the lush trails and uncover a hidden waterfall. They gather ingredients from the garden to prepare a home-cooked meal, filled with vibrant, fresh flavors. As the day winds down, they relax by the water, immersed in soft music and the glow of the sunset, embracing the perfect blend of nature, luxury, and cherished company.

If your latest collection had its own playlist, what songs would definitely be on it?

Here’s a playlist that perfectly represents Akua and where the brand is now, created by my DJ friend AngeliqueVie. It captures the smooth, adventurous spirit of Akua today. You can listen to it below:

Looking Ahead

What’s the part of designing something that lights you up the most?

The part that lights me up the most is turning a concept into something real, then watching someone fall in love with it—and with themselves.

What’s a challenge you’ve faced that ended up teaching you something valuable?

This entire experience has been an uphill battle, but every time a challenge is overcome, the feeling is unmatched. It’s taught me the importance of resilience and the power of persistence.

Is there anything new or exciting on the horizon for Akua Swim that you’re dreaming about?

Yes, we’re planning exciting Akua events, releasing new pieces very soon, and creating more opportunities to collaborate with and support our community. The best way to stay in the know is to subscribe to our mailing list on our website!

As Danika continues to innovate with every design and event, it’s clear that Akua Swim is dedicated on embodying a sense of intention, craftsmanship, and the belief that swimwear can inspire confidence and bring people together. With every piece, Akua Swim invites us to celebrate the best moments in life, the people who make them special, and the journey we’re all on together.

Stay tuned for all the exciting things coming from Akua Swim! To keep up with the latest updates and new collections, be sure to subscribe to their mailing list at akuaswim.com and follow along on social media.