ZAAF was founded in 2014 by Abai Schulze with the aim to create economic empowerment for African artisans and a new perspective and standard of global luxury. This isn’t any story it’s about one of triumph over adversity. One of a young girl from an orphanage in Addis Ababa who landed in the USA and grew a remarkable brand.

Willber Willberforce sat down to ask ፭ things.

How did you get into fashion?

It all came down to a convergence of both opportunity and passion. My passion derives from the reality that design and creative expressions of “physical creation” had always been a driver for me, even as I spent my university years focused on the science of economics at George Washington University. 

You work with primary leather. Do you see this as being the catalogue or are there any plans to diversify in fabrics and direction?

We are known for our leather handbags and accessories. However, in the last two-three years, we have expanded to other categories – such as jewellery, athletic wear and shoes. We are developing long-term growth opportunities across Africa, partnering with skilled artisans to develop high-end designer products that celebrate the continent’s ancient cultures, designs and natural wonders. 

Where do most of your buyers come from and are there orders from surprising places?

Our main customers are Americans as we have a brick-and-mortar retail shop in the US. Our online customers tend to be diverse – we receive orders from the Philippines, Singapore and from European countries.

How far are we from the next collection and will there be a show?

We are always launching new designs every 6-8 weeks. A few weeks ago, we launched our new jewellery collection and next month, we will be launching our new lounge/athletic wear.

If somebody out there reading this is thinking about venturing into making bags is there anything you wish you knew when starting out that you can share?

The handbag business is a saturated market so it is important to bring something that is purposeful, and unique so you can stand out in the marketplace.

Thanks to Abai for talking fashion with us……….Willber Willberforce