African women are proud of their unique style and creativity particularly in the world of fashion and accessory design. And for one Sierra Leonean entrepreneur, Ndaneh Howard, founder of accessory brand Ngewormia, this sense of pride is reflected in her work and her personal mission to get the world talking about the beauty of African accessories.
LoA got to know more about this passionate accessory designer and her company this month.
What does your company do?
Ngewormia, which means "it is the will of God”, is a fashion line uncovering the beauty of African accessories and a blend of western culture.
"Ngewormia, which means 'it is the will of God', is a fashion line uncovering the beauty of African accessories and a blend of western culture."
What inspired you to start your company?
I have always felt a deep, personal connection with jewelry design. I fell in love with jewelry making at the tender age of twelve. I used to design necklaces made out paper and leaves. I started this company because I wanted to see a change in the African fashion industry.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
My necklaces are bold, brilliant and unique.
"I started this company because I wanted to see a change in the African fashion industry."
Tell us a little about your team
Presently, I single handedly control every area of the business with the exception of the customer service which my elder sister handles.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
Transformation is the key word on my entrepreneurial journey - its been hard for me to be active at night but with the demand of my brand it was necessary for me to jump out of my comfort zone. My ability to forget ahead despite the possible risk of failure makes my journey a smooth road. In terms of my entrepreneurial background, I discovered my great grandfather was a weaver and a jewelry maker.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
Ngewormia would not succeed without sharing my knowledge with women all over Africa. I dream of a day when African fashion and style becomes fully internationally recognized and praised. I had a gut feeling that I can do so much more to further this dream in the not too distanct future.
"I dream of a day when African fashion and style becomes fully internationally recognized and praised."
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
After imparting lots of personal knowledge and imagination into a design, and I then happen to come across a customer rocking my brand, I take huge pride in that.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Be bold enough to pursue your dream. Surround yourself with the right people who will use your weakness to embrace you. Take advantage of all opportunities and step out of your comfort zone.
Contact or follow Ngewormia
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | EMAIL ngewormia02@aol.com
Why LoA loves it….
The world needs more entrepreneurs who have a love and pride for their country and continent, and the cultural heritage that exists there, turning that pride into unique design products that celebrate that heritage. Ndaneh Howard, founder of accessory brand Ngewormia, is harnessing the spirit of design from her native Sierra Leone and from across the African continent, and encapsulating that spirit in her bold accessories. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and editor-in-chief of Lionesses of Africa