TRENDING NOW: Checkout this lovely quality Hand Made items

THE RECREATION - TURNING WASTE TO WEALTH BY VERA AKPAN

CEO at Oremicraft
Attended University of Lagos
Lives in Lagos, Nigeria

One would assume that a graduate in marketing and

management, with a degree in international studies & diplomacy, and a master’s in public & international affairs is out there advancing on the corporate ladder, but Vera is following her passion, which is more fulfilling: making things with her own hands. From colorful jewelry to creative bags, belts, shoes and other accessories, Vera’s crafts are made from recycled materials and widely worn by women in Nigeria and abroad.

It all started as a hobby while she was still studying: “In my first year of study, learning history, I fell in love with the African continent, realizing that we are cultural people, we have much potential and should show it to the world.”

Vera explained that her path was not an easy one. “I did not have much and I was praying to God to show me a way forward," she said.

I somehow heard his answer… that it lies in my hands.” Armed with her mother’s sewing machine, she invested her school fees into creations for an exhibition, but it didn’t go well.

Although she was left broken-hearted she followed her vision with tenacity, and this she says helped her to discover her niche. At the time, women’s accessories in Nigeria were all imported.

Vera filled that gap in the market with high qualitative, modern products made with local materials, bearing indigenous patterns and designs. As Vera stated, in Nigeria people are driven by fast money and she would like to shift this mindset into a quality-driven culture, which can rise to international standards.

Here are some of her Hand made collections.