Mazuri Designs
Mazuri Designs has been on a mission to bring purpose to your purchase
sustainability engine for young womens sustained livelihoods
A Brand Built for Impact
employment, leading some to marry and become pregnant at a young age
Mazuri means “Most Beautiful” in Swahili.
Since 2015, Mazuri Designs has been on a mission to bring purpose to your purchase. Initiated by the non-profit organization, Girl Up Initiative Uganda (GUIU), which aims to empower adolescent girls and young women in the Luzira slums of Kampala, Uganda, Mazuri Designs economically empowers young women through building their vocational skills, business acumen, and confidence.
Why Choose Us
We're Dedicated to ...
In a country where youth unemployment stands at 70% and over half the population is under 30, Uganda is seeing a rise in entrepreneurial spirit among its young people, often referred to as “hustling.” Young women, in particular, face significant challenges, including poverty and limited access to education. Many never complete primary school and struggle to find gainful employment, leading some to marry and become pregnant at a young age. In this patriarchal society, this often results in financial dependence on men for security.
Ethical Fashion. Women Led. Purpose-Driven
Supporting young women’s economic empowerment
At Mazuri Designs, we are dedicated to empowering young women by providing them with skills in sewing, tailoring, and fashion design, as well as offering employment opportunities. Despite the hardships, our Mazuri community is built on creativity, friendship, and joy. We help these women recognize their value and potential, offering guidance and space for growth.
Our year-long training program equips young women with the skills to operate and repair both manual and electric sewing machines, design clothing, interact with clients, and deliver excellent customer service, alongside essential business skills.
What they are Saying
We source our fabrics from local markets, reflecting our cultural heritage through traditional Dutch wax prints. Our creations are not only beautiful but also represent the transformative impact of fair employment and training at Mazuri Designs on the lives of our seamstresses.
SENIOR SEAMSTRESS AND TRAINER
“Now, I am able to look after two of my brothers and pay their school fees. There is spirit of teamwork at Mazuri. I have become a role model to the women and girls in my community. ”