Women Who Inspire Us; Semhal Guesh Is Building the Future of Ethiopian Craft

Semhal Guesh (semhal.gueshb@gmail.com)

Let’s start with you! how would your friends or family describe you in three words?

Semhal - Resiliant, impactful and dog-lover :)

What are the essentials in your bag right now (or things you never leave home without)?

Semhal- My notebook/sketchbook, phone, and lip gloss

What inspired you to start Kabana, and what problem or possibility did you feel called to solve?

Semhal- First it was the idea of creating of designs with a huge desire to create meaningful work and dignity through craftsmanship. 

Later I understood when paying my first employee salaly, and she was suporting her family, her little sister that is when I saw the potential of Ethiopia’s leather sector to generate sustainable livelihoods, especially for women, while transforming the leather and the leather cutoff waste into beautifully designed products.

After partnershing with ABLE, the impact was bigger, better and structured. I felt called to build a business that proves fashion can be ethical, community-centered, and globally competitive.

What does leather craftsmanship mean in Ethiopia?

Semhal- Leather craftsmanship in Ethiopia is deeply rooted in heritage. It carries history, pride, and generational knowledge. When I walk through our factory, I do not just see bags being made. I see hands that have learned through patience and repetition, artisans who understand the material intuitively, and a culture that respects craft.

Follow up, what do you wish more people understood about the skill and artistry behind Kabana craft?

Semhal- I wish more people could see how much intention lives inside each piece. Every cut, every stitch, every edge finished by hand represents time and training. These are not just products. They are the result of human care.

Behind each Kabana-manufactured bag is often a woman who is supporting her family, building confidence, and strengthening her skill. When someone carries one of the pieces manufactured by us, they are carrying that story too.

As you look ahead, what is your vision for what’s next—for Kabana, and for you personally?

Semhal- For Kabana, I want us to continue growing responsibly. Expanding our global reach while staying deeply rooted in our values, with a partnerhsip like ABLE, it helps us continusly creating more dignified jobs.

Innovating with sustainability. Showing that Ethiopian, African craftsmanship belongs on the global stage, not as a trend, but as a standard of excellence.

Personally, I see myself continuing to build ecosystems, not just companies. Mentoring young women. Advocating for ethical manufacturing with partnering and learning from ABLE leaders and other organization. And proving that businesses led with heart can also be strong, resilient, and globally competitive.

This journey has never just been about only creating beautiful bags. It has always been about impact.