Meet Ava
Ava turned her crafting hobby into a business making affordable Afro-centric products in Harlem, NY. Ava’s handmade accessories and clothing are one-of-a-kind designs made from mixed mediums.
Ava has had a talent for crafting since she was young. It was her aunt who taught Ava how to crochet and knit, and her mother who taught her how to sew her own clothing.
“I turned my hobby into a business, making Afro-centric accessories affordable and spreading the joy of my one-of-a-kind designs.”
As a frequent craft fair and flea market goer, Ava noticed how many African accessories were priced highly. Tapping into her artistic skills, Ava decided to make Afro-centric accessories and clothing that are more affordable. She sells her products at the flea market in her neighborhood and other outdoor markets across New York City. Ava’s most popular products are purses and jewelry because of their unique designs, but she is always experimenting. Recently she’s made men’s bow ties and cufflinks.
“Grameen America is there to meet everyone’s business goals. If you have a business or if you have an idea and need extra capital, Grameen America is a perfect place to start because they give you the tools and network to succeed.”
Ava was introduced to Grameen America through a friend in the neighborhood. After learning more about the program, Ava decided to join the program in 2019 to gain the benefits of peer networking and a community of entrepreneurs. Since joining, Ava has also seen an increase in her credit score.
“Grameen America has given me a sisterhood. I learn a lot from the ladies in my Center, from sharing stories to exchanging business advice.”
Ava uses Grameen America loans to purchase supplies and materials, including fastener chains, buttons, zippers, and fabrics. She’s been able to buy larger items with the additional capital, including an industrial sewing machine, sewing table, heat press machine, and traveling case to transport and display products.
“I’m my own billboard. People stop me on the street asking where I bought something I’m wearing and I tell them I made it myself. A lot of business is through word-of-mouth.”
At the heart of Ava’s business is her personal interactions with customers. As a people person, Ava enjoys the face-to-face experience of selling directly to customers.