I have always loved fashion. Over the years, accessories and their ability to transform an outfit have really become my passion. Anavaa Kisasa is Swahili for "she dresses in fashion" and our bags really cater to and are in step with that woman who loves fashion. Currently we are featuring our fourth collection which is entitled Divaluxe. The majority of bags in our current line are made out of Italian lambskin leather. The softness of that particular type of leather really appeals to me and I think it is something that our target market would appreciate. Anavaa Kisasa caters to the woman who appreciates quality and loves fashion. Living in New York, I am inspired every day by the sights, the sounds and the people. I love to travel and, I think, bring all of my experiences to the table with me when I sit down to design. The name, Anavaa Kisasa was inspired by my travels to East Africa. Our bags are made in small quantities. This gives us the ability to be very detail oriented and ensure that our finished products meet our high standards and expectations

I am a self-confessed accessories junkie! Over the years I grew tired of buying handbags that I not only knew I could make – but could make better. I also found myself buying several bags for different purposes. What prompted me to start designing handbags was a combination of frustration and inspiration. Anavaa Kisasa bags are highly versatile and user-friendly. For example, many of our bags include inner pda and cellphone pockets or hidden compartments for stashing necessities. Our designs are a fresh take on modern style and appropriate for every occasion.

In 2006 my worst designer nightmare happened where someone that I was working with on my designs vanished without a trace. He left me absolutely no contact info. I was left with no patterns, no bags and I was expected to put out a new line soon after. I used it as a learning experience and am now much more careful with whom I bring on as a team member.

My greatest achievement thus far has been opening the store. It really is a dream realized. When others are as excited by Anavaa Kisasa bags as I am, it really gives me a thrill. Seeing a handbag go from an idea in my head to an actual product that is excitedly purchased by a customer is an amazing and extremely rewarding process for me. Despite any hiccups along the way, being able to create a product that is so warmly received is very gratifying. The steady progress made by the company has also encouraged me to continue to dream big and reinforced my belief in infinite possibilities. In addition, Breast cancer awareness is a cause that the company aligns it self with. Our entire team regularly participates in fundraising initiatives in support of the campaign.