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Our Story

The Heart and Hands Behind Our Craft

At the heart of our business is Leah “Shiro” Wanjiru, a vibrant woman, mother of three daughters, and a passionate crocheter whose journey with yarn began as an unexpected lifeline during one of life’s darkest seasons.

Our Story

Our Story; The Heart and Hands Behind Our Craft

At the heart of our business is Leah “Shiro” Wanjiru, a vibrant woman, mother of three daughters, and a passionate crocheter whose journey with yarn began as an unexpected lifeline during one of life’s darkest seasons.


Back in 2014/2015, Shiro faced a series of personal hardships; losing her job, loved ones, and enduring the strain of a difficult marriage. With depression looming, she stumbled upon an article titled “How Crocheting Saved Me from Depression.” That simple click led her to a YouTube tutorial for beginners, and unknowingly, to a new chapter of healing, creativity, and purpose.


Having grown up in a Kenyan village where crocheting with wooden sticks was once a playful pastime, the skill came naturally. With a small amount of change, Shiro bought her first yarn and hook from a local shop, and hasn’t stopped crocheting since. Over the years, she has made countless handcrafted items, from hats and scarves to dolls, sweaters, and bags. But more than just creating beautiful products, crocheting became her form of meditation and renewal, blocking out stress and inviting peace with every stitch.


A Family Legacy in the Making

Crocheting didn’t just transform Shiro’s life; it inspired the next generation too. Two of her daughters picked up the craft and quickly became experts. They began receiving paid orders from schoolmates and family, turning a household skill into a business opportunity. Today, they’ve opened their own savings accounts and are learning essential financial literacy, lessons woven into the fabric of their everyday lives. Shiro’s home has become a workshop, a school, and a safe haven for creativity.


From Hobby to Purposeful Enterprise

Shiro’s desire to share her skill with others grew naturally. She began teaching those around her and dreamed of professionalizing this knowledge through a structured training module. As she explored local fairs to sell her products, she attended an organic farmers market—thinking practically, "Everyone needs shopping bags, why not handmade ones?"


That day turned out to be a turning point. A woman named Tabitha approached Shiro’s stall, captivated by the craftsmanship. She introduced herself and shared her work in empowering women artisans to produce handcrafted products for global clients. Their conversation sparked a connection, and weeks later, Tabitha followed up.


After a series of meetings and product sampling for Tabitha’s office clients, Shiro realized something life-changing: her craft had global appeal. Additionally, encouraged over the years by close friends who believed in her talent, Shiro began to see her skills not just as a local passion, but as a gateway to global markets. Her handmade pieces, once shared only with friends and family, now had a place on the world stage.


From One Connection to a Collective Vision

Tabitha later introduced Shiro to Ruth, a longtime collaborator with whom she had worked on similar projects. The three women found synergy not just in craft, but in purpose and vision. They began collaborating, exchanging ideas, and learning from each other. Their bond evolved from professional acquaintanceship to deep friendship and shared mission.


Together, Shiro, Tabitha, and Ruth are building more than a business—they are weaving a legacy. A collective rooted in craftsmanship, community, and empowerment. Their work uplifts local women, girls and local artisans by equipping them with artisan skills, opening markets, and enhancing financial independence.


Our Mission

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Our Mission

To create world-class handcrafted products that carry the soul of our culture and the spirit of our artisans, while empowering communities, especially women, girls and young artists, with skills, dignity, and economic opportunity.

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Looking Ahead

We believe the future is luminous. Through intentional partnerships, community engagement, and ethical production, we aim to showcase the value of handcrafted African artistry to the world. Every bag, every stitch, every thread, every bead, every piece of leather tells a story; a story of healing, resilience, sisterhood, brotherhood and hope.

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Our Vision

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Meet the Team

    Wanjiru Gichia

    Design

    Leah “Shiro” Wanjiru

    Design