Star Maker: AAKS

Each month I choose my Star Maker from the nine featured in my print column. This month it’s Akosua Afriyie-Kumi from AAKS

Introduce us to your brand

AAKS was born from a childhood steeped in the beauty of Ghanaian basket bags and a vision for transforming them into something modern and vibrant. I had a desire for an AAKS bag to be softer, foldable, and adorned with tasteful, contemporary colours and detailing. This led me to research bag designs and fibres, discovering the alignment of these ideas with my dream brand’s ethos. Recognising a market gap for beautifully handcrafted bags, I embarked on a journey to Ghana to bring my vision to life, driven by a passion to create something uniquely fulfilling, both personally and professionally.

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

What sets AAKS apart is our dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability and cultural authenticity. Each bag is meticulously handcrafted in Ghana using traditional weaving techniques and ethically sourced natural materials like raffia. Our designs blend vibrant, contemporary aesthetics with the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, creating unique pieces that tell a story. By supporting local artisans and providing fair wages, we contribute to the economic empowerment of the communities we work with. In a world of mass production, AAKS offers stylish, practical and environmentally friendly bags, making each piece a cherished work of art.

What part of the process of making your items do you enjoy the most?

I love the freedom of creativity which comes with being a designer and running my own sustainable business. I also particularly love visiting my artisans. There’s a special feeling in seeing raw materials transform into beautifully crafted bags through skilled hands. I love sharing ideas with my artisans and watching my designs come to life. This hands-on involvement deepens my appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into every AAKS bag.

When did you realise you were a creative soul?

Definitely in my childhood. I was constantly sketching flowers from my parent’s garden in Kumasi, Ghana. This passion led me to art school and eventually to study fashion design at Kingston University in London. Immersed in vibrant colours and textures, I discovered my love for transforming traditional designs into modern, stylish pieces, sparking my journey into design and craftsmanship.

What’s the best feedback you’ve received about your brand or products?

A customer once said our bags are not just accessories but pieces of art that carry the spirit and craftsmanship of Ghana. They appreciated the quality, vibrant colours, and the story behind each piece, highlighting how our dedication to ethical practices makes owning an AAKS bag feel even more special. This heartfelt endorsement truly captures what we strive to achieve with every creation.

Why is sustainability so important to you personally and how you build your brand identity?

Sustainability is crucial to me and AAKS’s identity. Growing up in Ghana, I appreciated the beauty of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. We use ethically sourced raffia and eco-friendly weaving techniques, supporting local artisans with fair wages and sustainable jobs. This commitment ensures quality products that reflect our values of integrity and environmental respect.

When looking at your journey so far, what would you do differently?

Looking back at my journey, I probably wouldn’t change much as every challenge has been a learning curve that has shaped AAKS into what it is today. If anything, I would have encouraged my younger self to embrace starting and accept imperfections as part of the process – it’s all a work in progress.

What’s next for your brand? What newness should we keep a lookout for?

We’re excited to bring our collections to new markets with fresh, innovative designs that combine traditional weaving techniques with modern styles. We’re also making progress in exploring the homeware market and plan to launch a unique homeware collection soon. Follow our journey on Instagram for updates as we grow and evolve.