Daryl “DJ” Riley Jr., a North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University graduate, is set to revolutionize the intersection of fashion and technology with his latest invention: a wireless solar-powered charging jacket. This innovative creation has received patent pending status through Microsoft’s #MakeWhatsNext Patent Program.
Riley, who earned his master’s degree in electrical engineering in 2022, is the driving force behind Tendaji, a pioneering fashion tech brand inspired by the Swahili word for “make things happen.” The brand aims to merge cutting-edge technology with stylish designs, providing consumers with products that enhance their everyday lives without compromising aesthetics.
Tendaji’s flagship product, a solar-powered bomber jacket, is set to be a game-changer in wearable technology. This jacket features integrated solar cells that charge a built-in battery, enabling it to power compatible devices wirelessly, regardless of weather conditions.
How the Innovative Idea Came to Life
Conceived initially as an undergraduate senior project, this innovative concept took shape. At the same time, Riley collaborated with co-founders Stanton Ridley, chief design officer, and Jordan Walls, chief technical officer, during their studies at Hampton University. With the patent process underway, Tendaji is developing prototypes, aided by newly appointed chief financial officer Kagame Li-A-Ping.
Riley is also engaging with student interns from North Carolina A&T, including Nicholas Kochanski, a business information technology major, and fashion merchandising students Ashton-Taylor Lovette and Nicholas Hobbs. Together, they are brainstorming business strategies and refining the jacket’s prototype.
“The students’ creativity and expertise contributed to our business operations, and the solar-powered wireless charging jacket has been pivotal,” Riley stated.
Lisa Snyder, Ph. D., interim chair of the Department of Management, facilitated the collaboration by connecting Riley with Elizabeth Hopfer, Ph. D., assistant professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences.
“Having student interns from North Carolina A&T’s MBA student intern and fashion merchandising and design programs working on our business and prototype is truly an inspiring collaboration,” Riley expressed, highlighting his commitment to giving back just two years after graduation.
Giving Back
Philanthropy remains close to Riley’s heart. He founded GiveBLK, a nonprofit organization focused on creating opportunities within the African diaspora community. Last year, his team at Tendaji secured $20,000 in funding from Black Ambition, a nonprofit initiative established by philanthropist Pharrell Williams that supports high-growth startups led by Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Riley received an IBM Masters Fellowship for Artificial Intelligence and the MVP of TMCF’s “The Pitch 2021” program title. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Hampton University, which honored him in its Forty Under 40 Society this year.
Tendaji is set to unveil its first line of products in early 2025.
