Nigerian born, Elizabeth Dankaro, the owner/creative director for TebazileArt, studied Graphic Design , Los Angeles (UCLA). After graduating, worked as an intern at an Advertising Agency for jewelry, discovered her love for precious stones and metals. It was there the seed was sown and the Tebazile brand began its journey.
Elizabeth went on to work for one of Los Angeles’ leading jewelry designers further fueling her creative juices. In addition, she discovered that her attraction to nature and far-flung exotic locations, re-ignited her artistic narrative.
Tebazile Art and jewelry pieces are individual vignettes of Elizabeth’s journey, which incorporate her unique style and originality.
The Brand
Founded in 2002, Tebazile is a semordnilap for Elizabeth, its owner and creative director.
In 2010 and 2011 Tebazile was commissioned to design and create both the Miss Ghana and Miss Nigeria, Beauty Pageant crowns. The brand has since been applauded in key markets, adorning the likes of Thandie Newton, Halle Berry, Janet Jackson, Paris Hilton, Ciara, Jesse-J, Meagan Good, Cameron Diaz, Mya only to name a few.
Its pieces have been featured on TV shows, movies, online media, and in leading fashion publications.
Though known and recognized for its jewelry collection, Tebazile is now also being embraced for its Abstract Art.
Commissions
As part of Elizabeth’s desire to support young African women in reaching their potential, Tebazile sponsored Uneku Atawodi, Nigeria and West Africa’s first, black female polo player, at the 2011 AMG-Miami Beach Polo tournament.
In 2017 and 2020, Elizabeth curated an initiative teaching art to children in South Africa and Kenya.
Tebazile in 2018 was commissioned to create custom art pieces for two of Kenyas presidents: President Uhuru Kenyatta and then vice President William Ruto.
Tebazileart recently was one of the supporting brands for contestant, J Wahome, at the Kenyan WRC (World Rally Championship) 2025.