INTERVIEW: Read About NENE YAYA The Fashion Brand That Has Dominate Senegal With Her Handbags

NENE YAYA: We started making bags with the aim of showcasing the know-how of Senegalese artisans and demonstrating that Senegalese craftsmanship can compete with and surpass others.

NENE YAYA: Even without the logo, people will recognize our bags by their unique design. Our bags are beautiful inside and out, and we pride ourselves on the materials used to make the bags, the high-end finishes, the attention to detail, and the uniqueness of the bag shapes. All are handmade with love by local artisans.

NENE YAYA: We have a team made up of two craftsman leaders who, in turn, have subordinates to facilitate the work. Nene, one of the sisters and co-founder of the brand, is the designer. She is responsible for drawing the models and then gives them to her sister Marième, who manages the composition of the different leathers for the bag. They finally sit down with the craftsmen to explain the details of making the bag.

NENE YAYA: Our culture has a significant impact on our designs. The majority of our collections are appreciated, and our experience is reflected in our models. We include Senegalese culture in all our collections. For example:
– The “Jeux de Dames,” a very popular social game played from a young age within families and among friends.
– The “Seurou Deunk,” our interpretation of the loincloth, which is very important in Senegalese culture and accompanies us through all stages of life, from birth and naming ceremonies to marriage and beyond.
– The “Sunugal (Senegal) Collection,” where the bag had wave shapes reflecting Dakar’s surrounding waters. This collection was unique and combined the craftsmanship of our artisans with art, symbolized by paintings of Senegalese heritage on the bags.

NENE YAYA: The majority are in Africa, but we have a good percentage in the diaspora. Africans now know that what they used to admire in Western luxury leather goods/accessories can now be found here in Africa. They are proud and happy to wear Nene Yaya around the world. They particularly love the uniqueness and quality of the bags and receive compliments wherever they travel when they wear NENE YAYA.

NENE YAYA: We just have to believe in ourselves and our skills and know that everything that is done abroad can be done here in Africa, and even better.

NENE YAYA: First, we recommend the Rama Flap, which is our classic handbag. We have a version of it in each collection. It is an easy-to-wear bag for day, night, and any occasion. Second, we propose the Nefertiti because of its timeless design. This bag can be worn by any age. It is fashionable, chic, and understated. Last but not least, we recommend the OTG (On The Go), which can be worn anywhere. A versatile, medium-sized, contemporary bag that is your perfect travel companion. It’s the only bag you’ll need to bring with you, easily transitioning from a casual day bag to a chic clutch at night.