One People, One Purpose: The Artisanal Brilliance of Vanhu Vamwe

Where society appears to be dominated by fast fashion, Vanhu Vamwe (VV) stands apart as a vibrant and intentional alternative. This luxury brand, founded by Zimbabwean-born husband and wife team Simba Nyawiri and Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri, merges heritage, community, and innovation into every handcrafted accessory.

The name Vanhu Vamwe, which means One People in Shona, reflects the brand’s deeper purpose: to unite cultures and uplift communities through design.

Rooted in Care, Designed with Purpose

Pam and Simba are more than designers. They are cultural visionaries with a commitment to storytelling and sustainability. Pam transitioned from a career in journalism to study Fashion Accessory Design, eventually completing a PhD that focused on "Care in Design" for artisans in marginalized communities. Their creative philosophy centers on putting people first and honoring the process behind every product.

Each handbag created by Vanhu Vamwe is a reflection of this ethos. The designs are conceptual, meant to spark conversations and serve as cherished heirlooms. Their multifunctional appeal also allows them to double as home decor pieces. Every product is an intentional blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistry.

Crafted for Empowerment

Vanhu Vamwe operates with a clear mission: to economically empower women in marginalized communities. By working closely with artisans in Zimbabwe and Ecuador, the brand ensures that local makers are deeply involved in the design and production process. Every bag is developed through four rounds of sampling, allowing artisans to contribute both technique and cultural insight.

Production is slow and purposeful. Each design is assigned to a specific artisan who crafts every piece by hand, made to order. This not only eliminates overproduction but also fosters a deep connection between the artisan and the final product.

Sustainable Luxury with Meaning

Sustainability is at the core of Vanhu Vamwe’s practice. Every material is chosen with care to minimize environmental impact and maximize beauty and durability.

• Para-cord: The main material in the current collection is made from 100% recycled plastic PET bottles, creating an eco-friendly rope with a luxury feel.

• Vegetable-tanned leather: Sourced sustainably from Ecuador and England, using natural tanning methods.

• Sea grass straw: Hand-harvested in Salinas, Ecuador, this fast-growing grass is both renewable and durable.

• Natural yarn: Produced in rural Ecuadorian factories using local fibers and natural dyes.

  
  

Each element is chosen not only for its look and feel but for the story, it carries and the future it helps shape.

Legacy in Every Piece

Vanhu Vamwe refuses to follow trends or blend in. Instead, their pieces are bold, conceptual, and full of character. From quirky silhouettes to culturally rich narratives, these handbags are designed to last a lifetime and be passed on through generations.

As award-winning designers and global advocates for ethical fashion, Pam and Simba regularly speak on issues of sustainability and social innovation. Their work has become a blueprint for how fashion can function as a tool for empowerment, education, and meaningful change.

Vanhu Vamwe is not just a brand. It is a philosophy, a movement, and a celebration of heritage through design. For those who believe fashion should have purpose, this is where style meets soul.

Visit vanhuvamwe.com to explore their collections and learn more about their story.