I own and manage a handweaving workshop in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where we create a variety of styles using Tanzanian cotton. Our handwoven fabrics are available by the meter or as bed linens, throws, and clothing for both children and adults, crafted by our skilled team of tailors.
 My Journey to Handweaving
In 1994, I moved to Dar es Salaam and initially worked as an architect with my husband. Observing the lack of sustainable furniture options, I started a workshop creating furniture from discarded fishing boats. This allowed me to work from home while raising my young family. Our workshop supplied furniture to private homes, resorts, and lodges, eventually growing to employ 10 carpenters.
Transitioning to Weaving
Around 2010, I found it difficult to source local cotton sheets in a cotton-producing country, so we built our first loom. Through conversations with Tanzanian weavers, I learned many had stopped weaving due to competition from second-hand clothing. We began weaving on super-wide 250 cm looms and employed our first weaver, Zobeli. It took nine months to perfect the lightweight sheet fabrics I wanted.
 Growth and Innovation
As our weaving business expanded, some carpenters became weavers, and we added tailors to our team. Our involvement in Swahili Fashion Week and our garden fashion shows demonstrated the versatility of our fabrics for clothing. We were fortunate to have Danish textile designer Fie volunteer with us, teaching us numerous weaving techniques.
Community Engagement
Our fashion shows evolved into garden markets, giving local artisans a platform to showcase their crafts. Today, our workshop includes 16 dedicated individuals, and we collaborate with other tailoring workshops and hand weavers. We also offer weaving workshops and natural dye courses.