< Back
As Africa shakes off its colonial past, many young Africans are drawing from their pre-colonial histories to propel them forward. This attitude is what drives Vintara, a bag and accessories brand co-founded by Ian Mati focusing on bringing “African culture, spirit and love to the rest of the world”. Vintara achieves this by effortlessly interweaving authentic prints such as ankara, kitenge and tie dye around classic designs catering to five consumer bases - Mama, Kids, Yout (15-25-year olds), Malamud (professionals) and Msafiri (travellers).
Ian studied economics at the University of Nairobi and began developing Vintara as he graduated in 2015. Last year took part in the business accelerator programmes GrowthAfrica and Ongoza Africa. Now the brand’s practical yet stylish products are sought after by a new generation who see Vintara as a way for them to express their cultural identity. In this way, Vintara aims to represent the everyday people of Kenya and bolster the idea that a brand rooted in local creativity can be financially viable in the long term. Although a seemingly lofty ambition, Vintara’s success proves that if anyone is capable of the task, Ian is. I sat down with him to find out more.
In Conversation With Vintara Collections
Words by Luca Fierro
What can you tell me about your upbringing in Nairobi?
Ian: Growing up we did not have much, I remember making football out of paper. This meant I learnt to use the resources around me. Travelling 20 minutes out of Nairobi in any direction you find a range of economically and culturally diverse communities. This diversity is one of the things that drives Vintara.
I understand that Vintara, for you, is a mission statement against the tide of Western influence in Kenya.
Ian: Our parents had the privilege of learning about our culture but slowly there is a disconnect with the encroachment of the West. Future generations might not end up enjoying the privileges of this heritage. That’s why I want these bags to be an extension of our culture.
How would you sum up your approach to design?
Ian: I'm interested in what can be added, and more importantly what can be taken away, whilst maintaining functionality.
What has been your experience with Creative DNA, Metta & Fashion Scout?
Ian: They were the first organisations to educated me on fashion as much as business. Trends in Kenya are always a year or two behind, so it’s important to look to across the world to keep up.
“I am driven by Kenyan pride. I want to elevate the people around me”
Ian Mati
What would be your advice be to young entrepreneurs?
Ian: If I could say just one thing, it would be to remain open-minded. I never thought bags would be it for me but fashion is something everyone considers these days. And this year, because of the pandemic, we have had to venture into facemasks and rethink how and where we work. A lot of luxury brands were left behind because people are starting to value durability as much as design.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
Ian: I am driven by Kenyan pride. I want to elevate the people around me. We don’t hire tailors, instead we stimulate young creatives by training all workers in-house, with many going on to found their own businesses.
< Back