Hi,

 

My name is Zezayi Chipangura and I am a leather crafter.  I make shoes, hats, wallets, belts and pretty much any type of creative leather craft work you need. I am based in the high density suburb of Kambuzuma, Harare and I started my craft in March of the year 2000.  I was inspired by my elders who used to wear leather products. I was also drawn to leather because it is very strong and makes strong products.  I am a self-taught artisan having never received any formal training.  In fact, I started by hand sewing all my products until I finally learned how to sew with a machine.

 

I used to work with two guys but due to economic challenges they left for greener pastures and I now work alone.  However sometimes when I have big orders they come and help me.  I use genuine leather to make all my products.  Zimbabwe used to have plenty leather producers but not anymore.  It’s cheaper to travel to South Africa to purchase off cuts.

 

I consider my products to be friendly to the environment because I use leather off cuts that would otherwise be thrown away to a dumpsite by factories.  I also use old tyres to make the soles for my shoes. My tools mainly comprise a heavy duty sewing machine, an electric grinder, a hand punch or revolving punch, a hammer, a shoe stand etcetera… which I also buy in South Africa.

 

The major challenge I face as an artisan is that I don’t have enough capital to boost my art.  I have never exported my products but instead I sell my products in local curio stores and craft fairs organized by ZAACA.  Very often I sell on consignment which means I must wait months to get paid. I only get cash at craft fairs or other cash based selling environments.

 

My design ideas come first and foremost from within but sometimes guest designers will conduct workshops in Zimbabwe, or customers may request something specific. I can generally produce about 20 or so items per month.  It really depends on what your order.  I don’t have a catalogue but I am happy to send photos via email to kick start discussions.

 

Leather crafting is my sole source of income.  My goal is to become the largest handmade leather crafter in the country. I believe people should buy handmade products because they are unique and strong.

 

You can reach me through ZAACA or on (+263) 774 158 403 or email zelaleathercrafts@gmail.com.  My workshop is based at 2243 Section 6, Kambuzuma, Harare.

 

Thanks for reading my profile!