Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Phifer.
Victoria, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
A needle, thread and a yearly tradition rooted in love and celebration of culture. That is where the story of Harambee Crafts begins. Growing up, I loved sewing, weaving, and making jewelry – anything that allowed me to share my creativity with others. Harambee Crafts is inspired by tradition. In my home, we celebrated Kwanzaa for as long as I can remember – and still do. The holiday focuses on seven core principles to honor African heritage and uplift our community. As a kid, Kwanzaa gave me a chance to share my creative talent with my family because we exchanged Zawadi (gifts); and learned about the importance of supporting black-owned businesses.
Years later, I was a working adult and realized I needed a creative outlet. Like many, I fell into a repetitive routine of going to work, wondering where the weekend went, just to do it over again the next week. Sewing became a way to tap into my artistic roots and practice self-care by unplugging from the workday, other commitments and create something special from beautiful materials. I decided to formalize and create a business in late 2017 when I realized the handcrafted products were something others really appreciate.
Has it been a smooth road?
Harambee is in the startup phase and as one can imagine, I learn new things every day that can position my company to mature and scale. I’m learning how to articulate the unique story of the brand; develop standard operating procedures; and create systems to balance creating products, marketing, bookkeeping and all the other tasks a solopreneur manages. There are plenty of late nights and early mornings, but getting a little better every day motivates me. I have a background in public health, so it’s exciting to transition into entrepreneurship and develop new skills.
For young women just starting their business journey, there are several things you can do to begin, but having a growth mindset is key! Take advantage of free business resources available locally and online (e.g., accelerators, bootcamps, workshops, webinars). My friends can count on me sharing something interesting I discovered from business and personal finance podcasts, a book or article. Finally, don’t be afraid to invest in yourself and your business. Selectively attend training, conferences, and events to broaden your network and organically connect with entrepreneurs and or thought leaders.
We’d love to hear more about Harambee Crafts.
Harambee Crafts specializes in modern handcrafted goods for the culturally conscious. We create gifts and functional items for the home and daily life using African textiles. Our products are a reminder of African heritage and we’re committed to creating styles, designed and constructed with attention to detail, made to higher standards.
As Harambee Crafts expands, we’ll introduce new collections. The current collections include travel, home, men’s and baby accessories. They reflect items our customers use regularly and want to buy from small businesses. We exist to honor our Diaspora and your style.
As a brand, I’m proud to work with other women-owned and minority-owned businesses to source materials and receive professional services. A portion of sales also supports global makers and artisans through Global Mamas. Their organization provides sustainable income opportunities for approximately 200 craftswomen in Ghana.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
Data from 2018 shows four in ten U.S businesses were led by women and generated over $3.1 trillion in revenue! There are several reasons why this trend will continue in the right direction. Women have several inherent traits that contribute to success in business and leadership. We’re natural connectors – which is really helpful when building relationships with customers, vendors, lenders and other key players. Among many other tactical skills, there is plenty to gain from our intuition, empathy, creativity, and ability to multitask – which I personally lean on daily.
In terms of resources for women, there are many that come to mind. Atlanta is home to several initiatives (City of Atlanta’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative) and organizations that provide funding for women-led startups (especially in tech), business accelerators, co-working spaces, and networking events.
An online search will lead to dozens of funding opportunities designed for women (grants, business loans, pitch competitions). Major brands recognize the value of women in business and it’s encouraging to see the conferences and networking events they sponsor. There is certainly room for more opportunities for women-led businesses and it’s just as important to share our knowledge of existing resources and how to be prepared when the right opportunity for our business presents itself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.harambeecrafts.com
- Phone: 6789487028
- Email: harambeecrafts@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harambeecrafts/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harambeecrafts/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/harambeecrafts/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/harambeecrafts/
Image Credit:
PhyliciaJPhotography, PhiferPhotography
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