Our Founder
Unapendeza is a fashion social enterprise founded in June 2020 by Esther Ngemba, the designer and visionary behind the brand. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Esther and her family sought refuge from war and came to Cleveland, Ohio in 2011. Nine years later, Esther founded Unapendeza to showcase her passion for Congolese culture and fashion to the world. The products from Unapendeza not only bring joy and a touch of Africa to each customer but also foster community and encourage fashion exploration to embrace diversity. Unapendeza LLC donates 10% of profits from each sale to The Furahi Foundation, supporting girls' and women's education in low-income areas. Unapendeza is more than just a product—it's a cultural experience that drives social impact.
Our Approach
Empower Congolese Women Artists
Providing fair wages and opportunities to showcase their work, we aim to empower Congolese women artists and provide a sustainable source of income. By supporting Congolese women artists, we contribute to the economic growth of their communities.
Fair Trade Practices
we place a high priority on ensuring that the artists we collaborate with receive fair wages for their work. Additionally, we are committed to maintaining ethical working conditions that respect their rights and well-being. By doing so, we strive to create a sustainable and supportive environment that benefits both the artists and the broader community.
Tackle Gender Inequality
We will be donating 10% of the profit from each sale to The Furahi Foundation. The Furahi Foundation is a dedicated organization that aims to empower and uplift Congolese girls and women by providing them with comprehensive support through education, healthcare, agriculture, entrepreneurship mentorship, and policy advocacy. https://furahifoundation.org/