Sean Kiilu

Name: Sean Kiilu

Company:ROSKO STUDIOS

Job Title: Creative Director / Merchandise Agency Owner

Kiilu is the visionary founder of ROSKO STUDIOS, a dynamic merchandise agency dedicated to empowering creatives through innovative solutions. With over 10 years of experience in design and merchandise across fashion, music, and live entertainment, Kiilu seamlessly integrates design, production, and distribution to remove barriers and transform artistic visions into success. Under Kiilu’s leadership, ROSKO STUDIOS strives to be the leading global creative merchandise partner, championing innovation and sustainability to help creators effortlessly share their brand and art with the world.

Question 1: Who would you say is someone pivotal to your journey so far?

Someone pivotal to my journey is my cousin and best friend, Kevin “Rosko” Ruto, after whom ROSKO STUDIOS is named. At just 18, Kevin tragically passed away, but the lessons he instilled in me live on. At 11, he introduced me to graphic design to keep me out of trouble and inspired me with the idea that design shapes how we see the world and communicate ideas. Years later, I created this agency to honor his memory and pursue our shared dream of using design as a powerful tool to build and connect communities.

Question 2: Who would be your ideal mentor, and why?

My ideal mentors would be Brad Scoffern and Chris Bryant MP, as they represent two key areas I aspire to excel in. Brad Scoffern, founder of Ceremony of Roses, has mastered the art of world-building and creating iconic fashion brands for some of the biggest artists in the world, like Adele, Olivia Rodrigo, and A$AP Rocky. His ability to merge music, fashion, and storytelling is inspiring and aligns with my passion for creating impactful merchandise. Chris Bryant MP, the UK’s Arts Minister, embodies my vision for using design to empower communities. I admire his work in the public sector and aspire to contribute by helping young people think like designers—seeing the world as malleable and recognizing the value of their lived experiences. Together, these mentors reflect my ambition to merge creativity and community building on both a global and grassroots level.

Question 3: What advice would you give the next Trailblazer looking to break into your field?

My advice to the next Trailblazer is to network horizontally. Don’t focus solely on looking upwards for guidance, as those ahead of you may not fully understand or connect with your unique creative experiences. Instead, collaborate with friends and peers at your level. By growing collectively within your community, you’ll build a network that rises together, creating opportunities that are not only more rewarding but also deeply rooted in shared values and understanding.

Question 4: Who would you like to spotlight as your Trailblazer?

I’d like to spotlight the Soft Life Ski Team for their incredible work in reimagining what a home away from home looks like for Black culture in spaces few have dared to explore. They’ve brought the best of music, talent, and activities to ski resorts across Europe, creating a welcoming and vibrant experience for the Black diaspora and other minorities. By increasing diversity and inclusion in an industry that often lacks representation, SLS is helping to reshape expectations of where our community belongs. Their work is both admirable and vital, and I hope to collaborate with them in the future.