About Us

Uma | Carry Your Story

 

Bags By Uma is a luxury African handbag brand rooted in craftsmanship, storytelling, and authenticity. Every piece we create is a tribute to African heritage—blending traditional techniques with contemporary elegance to produce more than just accessories; we craft expressions of identity, purpose, and pride.

 

The story began in 2023, in the heart of Johannesburg. For me, handbag design wasn’t just a creative pursuit—it was a lifeline. As an undocumented immigrant in South Africa, I faced immense adversity. In those uncertain times, I returned to the skill my mother had passed down to me: sewing. What began as a survival tool became a passion—and then a purpose. It was through this craft that I found not only healing but a way to honor where I come from.

 

Bags By Uma stands on the values of love, individuality, and cultural reverence. Each handbag is handcrafted with precision and soul, ensuring no two pieces are ever the same. Our collections are designed to embody the richness of African artistry, made with premium materials and a deep respect for the continent’s vibrant creative traditions.

 

But our mission extends beyond beautiful craftsmanship. We are here to put African luxury on the global stage—to share our perspective, our culture, and our voice through design. Each handbag serves as a bridge between heritage and modernity, challenging perceptions and affirming that African design belongs at the forefront of global fashion.

 

At Bags By Uma, we believe fashion should tell a story. Our mission is to create luxurious, handcrafted handbags that empower people everywhere to carry not only their essentials—but also their roots, their resilience, and their pride.

 

Join us in redefining African luxury. One story. One bag. One stitch at a time.