Vanhu Vamwe is a slow fashion and sustainable goods maker, whose ethos is based on putting people first and designing with care. Founded by husband and wife duo Dr Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri and Simba Nyawiri in 2014, Vanhu Vamwe, which means ‘one people’ in Zimbabwe’s Shona language, promotes the humanity in craft development through knowledge-sharing, social impact work and storytelling in its designs. The Vanhu Vamwe design development process is immersive and inclusive, working with artisans to explore new ways to enhance and innovate their crafts. Vanhu Vamwe only works with traditional crafts because, “If we do not pass on the craft to the next generations and revive a revolution of thinkers who advocate for the importance of traditional crafts, they will cease to exist.”

Vanhu Vamwe’s handbags are sustainably produced in small-batch runs to avoid waste and limit overproduction. Vanhu Vamwe employs artisans in South America and Africa. In Zimbabwe, the atelier is reviving and elevating the country’s ancient weaving traditions in collaboration with local macramé weavers and wire artists. Together they create statement handbags using 100% recycled para-cord made from recycled plastic bottles.