A Passion Born in the Classroom
From an early age, creativity was David’s language. During high school, he discovered a deep fascination with art and craft : shaping, stitching, and designing by hand. What started as a youthful curiosity gradually evolved into a lifelong passion and, eventually, a business that reflects both artistry and identity. His work celebrates African craftsmanship, blending traditional materials with contemporary design to create products that tell a story of culture, resilience, and skill.
Goliart Creations Products
A Friend’s Mentorship, A Lifelong Skill
After completing school, a close friend who was already in the craft industry introduced him to the art of making adjustable leather beaded bracelets, the kind that became iconic across East Africa and the world . Under his friend’s guidance, he learned not only the technical aspects of beading and leatherwork but also the importance of creativity and precision.
As his skill grew, so did his imagination. David began personalizing the bracelets with names and countries, turning each into a wearable statement. Encouraged by growing demand, he opened his own workshop, where his craft expanded beyond bracelets to include leather wallets, wooden candle holders, and leather menu and notebook covers for hotels. Each creation combined authenticity, elegance, and function setting his work apart in a market full of imitation.
David at the workshop
Turning Passion into a Family Legacy
What began as a solo journey blossomed into a family enterprise called Goliart Creations. His wife became a vital creative partner, designing stunning beaded patterns for dresses, earrings, and accessories, which added vibrant color and texture to their product line. Their children, inspired by their parents’ creativity, now incorporate elements of art and design into their school projects ensuring that the love for craft continues into the next generation.
David and his wife sewing and adding final touches to their products
Beyond family, he also empowers his local community. During periods of bulk production, he hires young men and women from his neighborhood to help with stitching, polishing, and finishing products. This not only ensures timely delivery but also provides meaningful employment opportunities , uplifting families and spreading economic benefits through craft.
Together, the family and their community form a collective of artisans bound by skill, collaboration, and shared purpose.
More Than a Craft - A Community Movement
David’s work is more than artistry; it's a connection between tradition, people, and places. Over the years, he has showcased his products in exhibitions across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, earning recognition for his dedication to quality and originality.
Yet, his path has not been without obstacles. Exhibiting in Tanzania has presented challenges, with local artisans copying his designs and government regulations restricting Kenyan businesses. Despite these hurdles, he continues to stand firm in his commitment to integrity, craftsmanship, and innovation.
His products have found a strong foothold in the hospitality industry, supplying leather menu covers, candle holders, and décor pieces to hotels and restaurants. Each item enhances the ambience of these establishments, merging African authenticity with modern sophistication.
David and his wife showcasing their area of expertise
Expanding Horizons with Mawu Africa
Goliart and Mawu Africa partnership has played a pivotal role in shaping his vision for the future. Through Mawu Africa’s logistics and merchant support, he now supplies hotels across Kenya efficiently and sells to international clients without facing the logistical barriers that once limited his growth. This collaboration allows him to focus on what he loves most, creating while Mawu Africa ensures that his art travels seamlessly across borders.
Looking ahead, David dreams of expanding his workshop into a training and production hub that nurtures young artisans, provides stable employment, and keeps the flame of African craftsmanship alive. His ultimate goal is to see his brand recognized regionally and internationally as a symbol of creativity, family, and cultural pride.
With Mawu Africa as a trusted partner, his craft continues to move from local hands to global markets one handcrafted leather piece at a time.
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David and The Mawu Africa Team
