Akosua Afriyie-Kumi is a visionary fashion designer and entrepreneur who has taken the world by storm with her vibrant, handcrafted bags that embody the spirit of African culture and sustainability.
As the founder and creative director of A A K S, Akosua has built a brand that not only showcases her favorite weaving techniques from Ghana but also promotes ethical production processes and encourages sustainable consumption in the fashion industry.
Born in Ghana and educated in London, Akosua brings a unique blend of cultural heritage and international flair to her designs. Her impressive resume includes stints as a designer and co-owner of a fashion brand, giving her a broad understanding of the industry from multiple perspectives.
Since launching A A K S in 2015, Akosua has received widespread recognition for her innovative approach to fashion. Her brand has been shortlisted by Vogue Italia, featured in top publications such as Vogue, Elle Decoration, CNN, and Forbes Woman Africa, and stocked in over 60 stores worldwide, including MoMA Design Store, Anthropologie, and Nordstrom.
A A K S is more than just a fashion brand – it’s a movement. Akosua’s designs are handcrafted in Ghana, using traditional weaving techniques that conserve the provenance of this ancient art form.
Each collection silhouette is unique, telling a different story through detail, color, and shape. Akosua is deeply connected to every stage of the design and production process, ensuring that each piece embodies the spirit and soul of the A A K S brand.
At the heart of A A K S lies a commitment to sustainability, ethical production, and high-quality craftsmanship. Akosua’s design philosophy is built on three pillars: attention to craftsmanship, ethical and sustainable values, and a high-quality finished product that will never be mass-produced.
As a result, A A K S has become a beacon of hope for a more sustainable fashion industry, one that values people, planet, and profit equally.