What inspired the creation of your company, and when did it start?

When our founder, Zane Wilemon, took his first trip to Kenya 15 years ago, he was moved by the powerful way that the Maasai Tribe lives in the Kenyan Rift Valley. They heed a resilient and beautiful culture that was ridden with poverty. He partnered with a Kenyan minister to create jobs and sustain economic growth in the area.

What is your brand’s mission, and what causes drive you and your team?

We strive to sustain economic and community development in the Maasai Mara, and we are driven by the overall connectedness we have to one another. That is what UBUNTU means, “I am because we are”.

How is your brand socially responsible?

Not only do the proceeds of our products sustain economic growth for people in Africa, but each material we use is sourced carefully and ethically from trusted partners in Africa.

What does your brand do to lower its ecological impact and/or promote environmental health and well-being?

We source materials in close proximity to our operations, lowering the use of petroleum in transport. In addition, our products are made by people, not machines, decreasing external energy needed to create our products.

Does your company perform animal testing and/or use animal-based ingredients in your products? Why or why not?

We use cow-leather in our bags from a trusted partner in Africa that ensures ethical treatment of the cows and quality of leather.

Where does your company make/manufacture your products, and why?

We manufacture our products in Kenya to increase job opportunities and economic sustainability in that area.

Describe your design philosophy – how do you balance quality and affordability?

All of our designs are inspired by the landscape of the Kenyan Rift Valley. In the color, the 36 degree stitched line, and materials, each product reflects the land it is created in. We use the highest quality canvas, leather and beading, and we work with partners within our community to achieve affordability without the cost of high transport.

Tell us a little about the ingredients/materials you use. Generally, why did you pick them over other options?

We use cotton canvas and leather sourced from Ethiopia. We picked these options because of our relationships with our partners and suppliers in Africa. We value and love the people behind the materials.

What are the next steps for your company?

We hope to continue to grow and provide more jobs in the Maasai Mara.

How do you view the future of conscious consumption?

People are information seekers. As time goes on, people will grow in curiosity to ask, “Where did my bag come from? Who made it? What impact does it make on this world?” And people will find they are more attracted to goods that make a positive impact.

As a parting sentiment, if you could only use one word to describe your brand ethos – what would it be?

LOVE