In every stitch of our Afrostyled packaging bags, there is a story. It’s not just a story of
fabric and fashion – but one of strength, healing, and new beginnings. It’s the story of the
women behind the masterpieces.
Our bags are not ordinary. Handcrafted from vibrant Kitenge, they are sewn with care
and extraordinary skill by women whose lives have been transformed through a Beyond
Fistula program in Eldoret, Kenya. Each bag is reusable, eco-friendly, and sustainable –
but more importantly, each one carries the heartbeat of a woman who refused to let her
past define her future.
Let’s learn a little about the makers behind these beautiful creations.
At just 25, Dorcas is living proof of the profound impacts Beyond Fistula has on women’s
lives. . A survivor of obstetric fistula, she participated in a Beyond Fistula training
program in February 2020. After receiving treatment at Gynocare, she participated in a
vocational training workshop- curious, hopeful, and determined.She quickly fell in love
with tailoring, learning to sew Ankara bags, table mats, aprons, purses, and even
surgeon’s head caps. Over time, she became a master craftswoman.
Now, five years later, Dorcas has not only healed physically but also she has purchased
land, built a home, and secured a future for herself and her family. She’s one of the
gifted hands behind every Afrostyled bag.
“This is my talent,” she says with a smile. “This is what I’m passionate about,
and I love it so much.
Mary, 28, first came to Beyond Fistula in 2015. After two years of healing and learning hairdressing and sewing, life took her in a different direction. But in January 2024, she returned – ready to pick up where she left off.Since then, she has been crafting Afrostyled packaging bags, Ankara purses, aprons,and intricate beadwork.Her message to other women living with fistula is simple yet powerful:
“If there’s a woman out there suffering because of a fistula, don’t pressure
yourself. It is possible to get treatment life is worth living again. Seek
help.”
The Beyond Fistula Impact
Caroline Mabeya, Hospital Director and Program Manager at Beyond Fistula, shares
that the organization also supports women in Kakamega, Kericho, and West Pokot. One
of their biggest challenges is reaching women in remote, marginalized areas, where stigma often silences them.Beyond Fistula offers a safe home for up to six months. They provide medical care and empower women through vocational training, business skills, and agribusiness.
Your Bag, Their Story
When you choose an Afrostyled packaging bag, you’re not just selecting a stylish,
sustainable product – you’re becoming part of a bigger story.You’re supporting women like Dorcas and Mary – women who have fought unimaginable battles and emerged stronger. You’re helping create opportunities for income, dignity and inspiration. Each bag is more than just packaging -it’s a symbol of resilience, sustainability, and empowerment.
So next time you carry an Afrostyled bag, remember:
It’s more than just a bag. It’s a story worth holding.
