Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair Q&A: AAKS hand-crafted

AvatarCarina Claassens5 Minutes With

We chat to Akosua Afriyie-Kumi from AAKS, a company that creates handcrafted bags using Ghanaian weaving techniques, characterised by bright colours

From #Bolgatanga to #Paris ! Who would have thought my crazy ideas for bags & colours will lead me to the big fashion capital. I call it "The entrepreneurial marathon' where you double up as everything from a book keeper, to being the designer, the accountant to the runner… With all the above, I am super excited about this once in a life time opportunity to showcase my work @MaisonetObjet with the help of the #designNetworkAfrica & #CKU ?? Our grand finale covered by @ellemagazinesa & @elle_deco . Now to the fun parts any one got tips for Paris ? Look forward to meeting everyone face to face & don't forget to sign up to our newsletter for our announcement. Aaksonline.com #AaksInParis #Ghana #MaisonObjet

A photo posted by AAKS (@a.a.k.s) on

Why did you choose this career?

I absolutely love the freedom of creativity that comes with being a designer and working in a constantly evolving field. I’ve always had the desire to start a sustainable brand in Africa and saw a gap in the market for handwoven products using ethical production.

Where did you study?
I studied fashion design at Kingston University in London.

If you didn’t own AAKS what would you do?
I would love to be a professional sports athlete.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
My parents are my biggest inspiration.

What has been the highlight of your career?
Having my handwoven bags stocked by Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie in the first year of business.

Your decor style in three words
Authentic, eclectic and colourful.

Instagram, Twitter or Facebook?
All three, like AAKS on Facebook here and follow us on Twitter @aakshandcrafted or on Instagram @A.A.K.A

Your guilty pleasure?
Anything handmade or woven – and croissants.

What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on my latest spring/summer 2017 collection which I’m super excited about. Watch this space.

What’s your dream project?
To collaborate with Marni or Missoni and to create colourful woven chairs in Ghana.

Visit aaksonline.com