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Sang'ona Rehema

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My name is Sang'ona, but I go by Sareh. I’m a multidisciplinary artist and founder of Moyo wa Sanaa—which means “The Heart of Art.” Based in Nairobi, I work with leather, beads, paint, and mixed media to tell stories rooted in identity, resilience, and everyday experiences. I’ve been passionate about art and craft from a young age, always experimenting with everything I laid my hands on. That curiosity grew into a deep love for creating—transforming raw materials into meaningful, expressive pieces. My leatherwork blends traditional techniques with contemporary expression, often incorporating beadwork and found materials to create unique, functional art. Each item I craft is more than an object—it’s a message, a memory, or a moment captured through texture and form. I believe art can be a powerful tool for healing, awareness, and change. My work is inspired by both personal and social themes—ranging from inner strength to justice, freedom, and cultural pride. I was recently inducted as a volunteer with Greenpeace Africa, and I actively take part in environmental and community-based initiatives like tree planting and river cleanups. Through Moyo wa Sanaa, I aim to not only create but also inspire. I’m especially passionate about empowering young creatives, women, and youth—encouraging them to find their voices through art and build sustainable, purpose-driven lives.

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ECHOES OF THE FOREST

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Africa

This body of work is inspired by the African forest elephant — a quiet giant of the wilderness and a symbol of both physical and spiritual strength. Endangered and often unseen, this elephant moves with grace through dense forests, embodying wisdom, resilience, and deep connection to the Earth. Beyond its ecological importance, the elephant carries profound spiritual meaning. Across cultures, it represents wisdom, protection, patience, and ancestral memory. It teaches us to move with intention, to hold space for others, and to honor the strength found in stillness. As a spiritual messenger and guardian, the elephant reminds us of what must be preserved — not only in the wild, but within our cultures and inner selves. In this collection, the textures, forms, and tones reflect these qualities — drawing from the earthy, raw elegance of the elephant’s natural world. Through leather, I aim to translate its presence into something tactile and lasting: a tribute to survival, sacred balance, and the quiet power of endurance. As we walk through our own forests — of memory, identity, and creation — I hold onto this truth: “Kama tembo, twavuka kimya tukiwa na nguvu. (Like the elephant, we cross in silence but with power.)

← →

ECHOES OF THE FOREST

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Africa

This body of work is inspired by the African forest elephant — a quiet giant of the wilderness and a symbol of both physical and spiritual strength. Endangered and often unseen, this elephant moves with grace through dense forests, embodying wisdom, resilience, and deep connection to the Earth. Beyond its ecological importance, the elephant carries profound spiritual meaning. Across cultures, it represents wisdom, protection, patience, and ancestral memory. It teaches us to move with intention, to hold space for others, and to honor the strength found in stillness. As a spiritual messenger and guardian, the elephant reminds us of what must be preserved — not only in the wild, but within our cultures and inner selves. In this collection, the textures, forms, and tones reflect these qualities — drawing from the earthy, raw elegance of the elephant’s natural world. Through leather, I aim to translate its presence into something tactile and lasting: a tribute to survival, sacred balance, and the quiet power of endurance. As we walk through our own forests — of memory, identity, and creation — I hold onto this truth: “Kama tembo, twavuka kimya tukiwa na nguvu. (Like the elephant, we cross in silence but with power.)

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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.