Our Story and Values

Welcome to SamKan

At SamKan, we don't just sell bags; we share a vision of a world where every product we make tells a story of integrity, sustainability, and heartfelt connection.

Our Story

At SamKan, we believe that luxury isn't just about the price tag, it's about the story, the craftsmanship, and the positive impact each purchase can make. Each SamKan bag is a testament to this incredible story, offering you not just a fashion accessory, but a piece of this inspiring journey.

SamKan’s journey begins with Salma Kanu, whose dream was to craft accessories that defy time and trends. In 1990, when the war started in Sierra Leone, Salma was brought to the United States to escape the war. Since moving to the United States, Salma has faced unimaginable challenges. Despite these hardships, she aspired to study accessories design at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York. Twice she was invited to present her portfolio, and twice her dream was derailed due to technicalities. But Salma did not let these setbacks define her. Instead, she transformed them into a source of strength and inspiration.

Salma’s resilience and determination led to the founding of SamKan, a brand that embodies strength, grace, and perseverance. Today, SamKan stands as a beacon of hope, turning obstacles into opportunities and proving that with determination, dreams can indeed become reality.

Breaking Barriers

As a Black-owned and woman-owned brand, we have faced and overcome the many hurdles that women of color encounter in the fashion industry. SamKan is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. Our brand stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing that determination and talent can break through even the toughest barriers. We aim to inspire other women of color to pursue their dreams and make their mark in the world.

Genuine Leather from Food Waste

Imagine a world where waste isn't just discarded but transformed into something beautiful. That's what we do. All of our bags are crafted from real leather sourced from food waste. This process not only reduces waste but breathes new life into materials that might otherwise be discarded. Our commitment ensures that every SamKan bag you carry is a testament to quality and durability.

No Artificial Shortages

In a world full of gimmicks, we choose authenticity. We don't fake shortages to inflate our importance or keep prices high. At SamKan, we believe in offering you genuine products that are always available when you need them, without any unnecessary marketing tricks.

Pre-Order Driven Production

Our approach to production is simple yet revolutionary. By putting our products up for pre-order, we ensure that we're making items that people truly want. This not only helps us avoid overproduction and waste but also means that when you receive your SamKan product, it's something you've genuinely anticipated and desired.

Environmental Responsibility

We refuse to destroy unsold products just to maintain an illusion of exclusivity. At SamKan, we are deeply committed to our responsibility to both you and the planet. We strive to minimize waste and make responsible, eco-friendly choices in everything we do. SamKan is not just breaking the rules; SamKan is a revolution.

Honest Pricing

We believe in transparent and fair pricing. Unlike other brands that inflate prices just to reduce them during peak retail seasons, our prices are honest and consistent all year round. This approach helps build trust and long-term relationships with our valued customers.

Quality Materials

Every detail matters. That's why every bag we sell features all-metal zippers, never plastic. This commitment to quality ensures that your SamKan bag is not only stylish but built to last, offering you a product that stands the test of time.

Timeless Fashion

We don't believe in the fleeting trends of fashion seasons. Instead, we focus on timeless designs that you can cherish and wear all year round. This not only reduces the pressure to constantly update your wardrobe but promotes a more sustainable way of consuming fashion.

SamKan's Commitment

Imagine owning a piece that not only elevates your style but also makes a profound impact. At SamKan, we are on a mission to transform lives through the art of leather craftsmanship. Did you know that Africa is a major exporter of raw hides and skins, accounting for around 30% of global exports? Yet, despite this wealth of resources, Africa only contributes a mere 4%-8% of the world's leather due to processing and infrastructure challenges. We believe in harnessing this untapped potential to create a brighter future.

When you purchase a SamKan handbag, you're not just buying a beautiful accessory, you're investing in the dreams and futures of disadvantaged youths in Africa. A portion of every sale goes directly to sponsoring training programs that teach young people valuable skills, empowering them to build better lives. Once they are properly trained, we aim to provide employment opportunities to these skilled individuals, further supporting the leather industry's growth in Africa.

Feel the pride of carrying a SamKan bag, knowing that your choice supports sustainable practices and uplifts communities. Join us in this mission of craftsmanship, creativity, and change.

Join the Revolution

At SamKan, we are more than a brand; we are a community dedicated to making a positive impact. We invite you to join us on this journey towards a more sustainable, ethical, and heartfelt future. Together, we can make a difference, one beautiful, sustainable product at a time. Make a statement with SamKan, where every purchase makes a difference.

Join the SamKan family and be part of the revolution.