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Angela Ndonga

Self Employed

I run a footwear business called Angie’s Crochet’s.

Footwear, Sandals, Unisex

I started my design journey when i first knitted and came up with a small coin purse when I was about 8 years old. Then we shelved that creative aspect till i got to Campus, and in 2018 i got into creating and selling accessories like waist beads, bangles, necklaces, anklets. I experimented alot towards my last year in University. I got a sewing machine and I’d get to upcycle some of my Dad’s Shirts and Pants into crop tops, skirts and two piece sets. I really enjoyed the creation process, doing before and after clips on Instagram. I then transitioned to knitting and crocheting which really intrigued me and it came very easy to me. Being in the Youtube era really enhanced my crochet skills and i got a number of orders as well via Instagram and referrals. Crocheting can get tiresome and i realized i couldn’t create as many projects as i wanted to since i was doing it alone. I looked into a niche that could suite my liking and i got inspired by a Rwandese Footwear Brand that creates Sandals using Ankara Fabric and that’s how I ventured into creating crochet sandals and I’ve never looked back, we actually won an award Last year under the Most Innovative Business.

Website

The Fruits from Kenya (Tunda) Collection - A Journey Through Kenyan Soil Stitch by Stitch.

Category: Footwear

Competitions: Africa

Crafted by hand. Inspired by nature. Worn with purpose. A vibrant fusion of artisanal tradition, sustainable fashion and the natural beauty of the soil, our land. Each pair of these handcrafted crocheted leather sandals is more than just footwear, it's a Kenyan story from earth, fruit and a human touch. THE LEATHERWORK. We begin the journey from our local tanneries where we get Cow Leather, then it's hand cut and shaped by our leather technicians. This high-quality leather forms the durable and elegant foundation for each sandal, designed to offer both style and longevity. Our aesthetic rubber soles are carefully measured and cut into the sandal base ensuring long lasting wear and artisanal quality you can feel in every step. THE CROCHET DETAILING. Then the magic of crochet brings the soul of the collection to life. With a blend of cotton yarn and carefully cut strips of leather to mimic yarn, I use traditional crochet techniques to craft intricate fruit-inspired designs, all by hand. Every loop and knot speaks of patience, precision and pride. These designs are inspired by the bold, juicy fruits across Kenyan farms and markets. . GRAPES: Representing Kenya's growing wine culture, so does the interest in grape farming, including eco-tourism around vineyards. The grape design features lush purples and deep greens, symbolizing sweetness, resilience and the promise of growth. . PINEAPPLE: The Del Monte plantation in Thika is one of the largest pineapple plantations in Africa. The pineapple sandal bursts with golden hues and playful crown textures, embodying joy, hospitality and sunshine. . STRAWBERRIES: An all year harvest, thanks to Kenya's climate. From the fertile fields of Limuru and Kiambu, portrayed with vibrant reds, soft whites, and tiny green crowns — a sweet tribute to nature’s candy. Each design is wearable homage to the fruits that sustain our communities and tell our agricultural story. Ethically made and environmentally conscious, the Collection supports local economies, preserves age-old crafts which redefines luxury as something rooted in purpose. These sandals aren't just made to walk in, they are made to connect: to the land , to the maker and to you.

The Continuity of the Yarn Culture.

Category: Footwear

Competitions: Africa

The Braided Sandal has been created from Cow leather, Pure Cotton Yarn and Recycled car tyres for the sole. Looking back into our African culture, in our homes, we have always familiarized ourselves with the hair braiding culture and the use of yarn to create hand-made products and we have seen various hair braiding and crochet styles evolve over the years. Typically, a braid can be as long as you want and the braid pattern on the Sandals symbolizes the continuity of the crochet/use of yarn culture to create hand-made magic. The Braid Sandal is a very aesthetic and functional piece that can be created into a flat sandal, a wedge or a platform and can be customized into a variety of colors. This ascertains the fact that there is a clear continuity in the use of yarn culture when merged with the durability of cow leather. Being a trendsetter in Crochet Footwear continues to show creatives that we can merge leather and yarn to build on sustainable products that can be consumed by a wider market. It’s important for us to actively take part in the continuity of cultures that have the potential to impact communities.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.