Meet the Hands Behind the Bags: A Day in the Life of a ByHer Artisan - Mercy

At ByHer, every stitch tells a story. It's a story not just of vibrant African prints and ethical craftsmanship, but of empowerment, resilience, and the incredible women who bring our unique bags and accessories to life. Our name, "ByHer," is more than just a brand; it's a promise – a promise to uplift and celebrate the talented hands that craft each piece.

Today, we invite you to step into the world of one such artisan, Mercy, and discover what a day looks like for the women who are at the very heart of ByHer.

A Dawn of Creativity:

For Mercy, the day often begins with the soft glow of the Kenyan sunrise, accompanied by the sounds of her family waking. After preparing breakfast and ensuring her children are ready for school, she begins her journey to the ByHer workshop, often sharing stories and laughter with fellow artisans along the way. The air is already buzzing with anticipation – another day of creativity and purpose awaits.

The Workshop: Where Ideas Take Shape

Stepping into the ByHer workshop is like entering a hub of focused energy and camaraderie. Rolls of brightly patterned African fabrics await transformation, alongside reclaimed denim and other carefully sourced materials. Here, she joins her colleagues, greeted by the rhythmic hum of sewing machines and the cheerful chatter of women sharing their morning.

Mercy settles into her station, her fingers already itching to begin. Depending on the day, she might be working on one of our signature crossbody bags, meticulously cutting intricate patterns for a new tote, or adding the final, delicate touches to a passport holder. Every task is approached with precision and pride.

"Before ByHer, I worried constantly about providing for my family, now, when I sit at my machine, I don't just see fabric; I see a future. I see my children's education, healthy meals, and the strength of our community."

Skill, Dedication, and Shared Laughter

The workshop environment is one of continuous learning and mutual support. Experienced artisans mentor newer ones, sharing techniques and tips passed down through generations of Kenyan craftsmanship. It's a place where skills are honed, confidence grows, and friendships flourish. Lunch breaks are filled with shared meals, stories, and the kind of laughter that only comes from deep connection.

Mercy's hands move with practiced grace, guiding the fabric under the needle, creating clean lines and strong seams. She knows that each bag she creates isn't just a product; it carries a piece of her dedication and a story of empowerment to its future owner.

Beyond the Stitch: A Sustainable Future

As the afternoon progresses, the collection of finished pieces grows, each one a testament to the collective effort. For Mercy and her fellow artisans, the work at ByHer means more than just a job; it means a sustainable source of income that directly impacts their families and communities. It means financial independence, the ability to make choices, and the power to shape their own destinies.

"I am proud to be a ByHer artisan," looking up from her work, her eyes reflecting determination. "We are not just making bags; we are building lives. And knowing that 5% of our profits go to helping young girls escape FGM? That makes every piece we create even more meaningful."

The Evening's Reflection

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows, she gathers her belongings, a sense of accomplishment warming her. She heads home to her family, carrying not just the day's earnings, but the satisfaction of meaningful work. The impact of ByHer extends far beyond the beautiful products; it lives in the empowered spirits of women like Mercy, building brighter futures one stitch at a time.

Call to Action: When you choose a ByHer bag, you're not just getting a unique, colourful, and ethical accessory – you're directly investing in the lives of incredible Kenyan women and helping to secure a brighter future for young girls. Discover our collections and be a part of their story today.