Our Story
In a world that ceaselessly races towards an uncertain tomorrow, we chose to halt and celebrate the sacred art of creation. Preserving ancient techniques, upskilling communities, crafting everything by hand, and doing so with reverence for the earth is at the heart of who we are.
Note from Our Founder
Anita Patrickson
AMANU is a reflection of my childhood in Africa. Growing up on a farm out in the bush, I was raised among a family of conservationists, where a profound connection with the earth was interwoven into the details of daily life: When I think of home, I think of long walks through the tall grass and acacia trees, our feet covered in red dust. Bright orange sunsets with the song of cicadas in the distance as the light faded and the bats came out.
All this inspired the intrinsic mindfulness, aesthetic and respect that is at the heart of AMANU: Use only what we need. Be resourceful. Consciously honor the place, tradition, and planet we are part of. On a mission to pursue less, we invite you to experience our handmade sandals, our bags and our belts, all created purposefully for you, using materials with the utmost intention.
Much Love,
AMANU Academy
Empowering Artisans in Kibera
At AMANU, we are dedicated to making a positive impact through our AMANU Academy. This initiative is designed to empower and support local artisans in Kibera, Kenya, by providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to grow their businesses successfully.
Our comprehensive syllabus covers crucial aspects of business operations, finances, and management, offering clarity and guidance to help these talented individuals scale their enterprises. By focusing on more than just product creation, we aim to foster a holistic approach to business development.
Through AMANU Academy, we share innovative ideas, collaborate on strategies, and work together to unlock the full potential of our artisans. This initiative not only enhances their skills but also enables them to share their unique talents on a broader scale, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and sustainability of their communities.
We are proud to support our artisans in Kibera, helping them create a lasting impact through education, empowerment, and collaboration.
Values That Define Us
Human Connection
In an age where fleeting moments are lost in the digital blur, we stand as guardians of a timeless magic— the magic of slowing down. We cherish the connections that mold our identities, the threads that weave us together as a community. In every pair of AMANU sandals, every bag and every belt or piece of jewelry, you'll find the soul of our African makers who meticulously poured their spirit into each stitch, each detail, creating a thread that binds us all.
Empowering Choices
At AMANU, we champion the beauty of choice while empowering our artisans. Our diverse materials and styles empower you to curate your distinct path. Just as no two individuals are alike, we recognize that personal style is deeply individual. Guided by expertise and passion, our artisans infuse each creation with life, transforming it into an accessory that articulates your narrative, step by step. With every choice you make, you're not just expressing yourself; you're also uplifting the skilled hands and hearts behind each meticulously crafted piece.
Simplicity Rules
Our design philosophy is a tribute to the timeless elegance found in simplicity. We eschew the excess, celebrating the beauty of craftsmanship in its purest form. We specialize in crafting items that transcend the ever-shifting tides of trends, each piece embodying the enduring allure of timeless style.
Conscious Consumption
Our mission extends beyond crafting exquisite items; it's about changing the world, one creation at a time. Our commitment to sustainability is the compass that guides us. We craft with a conscience, sourcing only what is sustainable, using techniques that cut down on emissions ensuring that every step you take leaves a gentle footprint on our shared planet.
Every piece we make is a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and the beauty of human connection. We invite you to join us in this journey—a journey of choice, simplicity, and conscious consumption. Discover a world where every creation is a chapter in the story of your life.
Our Makers
Empowering Communities Across the Globe
Our journey led us to Kibera, the largest slum in Africa, located just outside Nairobi, almost five years ago. During our visit, we were deeply moved by two extraordinary facets of this community.
Community Bonds
In Kibera, we witnessed an undeniable sense of community that thrived despite facing enormous challenges. The alleys resonated with the sounds of laughter and music, serving as a testament to the resilience and joy of its residents. What stood out was the way neighbors embraced one another, sharing resources and ensuring that no child went to bed hungry. It was a vivid reminder of the power of togetherness in even the toughest of circumstances.
Artisanal Mastery
Within the labyrinthine network of dusty workshops, we encountered exceptional artisans—men and women who had honed their skills in woodworking, metalworking, sewing, and design. It was remarkable that these artisans had no formal training, yet their craft was nothing short of magical. They breathed new life into discarded padlocks, transforming them into brass components. They artfully carved exquisite jewelry from horns collected from local suppliers. In every creation, they showcased an unmatched talent for resourcefulness.
This profound experience led us to the realization: it's not the lack of resources that so often affects our ability to effect change; it's our lack of resourcefulness. This newfound perspective has become a guiding light for AMANU and the journey that initiated the AMANU Academy that Anita and our team hold annually in Kibera for our artisans and anyone interested who would like to better run their own enterprise.
Global Impact
AMANU's journey extends beyond Kibera, impacting communities across the globe through our various hubs in Kenya, Cape Town, and LA. Our commitment to empowering artisans and creating sustainable change remains unwavering.
It's more than just making products; it’s about empowerment, education, craftsmanship and community. Together, with our artisans from around the world, we are taking steps towards a sustainable future where every creation leaves a smaller but more impactful footprint.
Thank you for being a part of our journey.