OUR HISTORY
How Sanyan Began
Sanyan was born in 2019 from a simple but powerful idea: to create clothing that adapts as life does.
The Seed of an Idea
2019
Sanyan began with a longing for clothes that could adapt as life does. Living with daily discomfort due to a medical condition, I imagined garments that offered both confidence and ease — pieces versatile enough for every moment, yet rooted in heritage and style. From this vision, a seed was planted: to create slow-fashion pieces that felt personal, purposeful, and enduring.
Foundations & Connection
2021
In 2021, Sanyan took its first true form. I co-founded the brand with my life partner, and together we laid its foundations. We travelled across the country, meeting women face-to-face, listening to their stories, and refining our designs in response. These moments of connection with the women who wear our designs were invaluable. This was the year of testing, iterating, and shaping Sanyan into a brand that truly serves those women while staying rooted in slow fashion principles of adaptability and longevity.
Quiet Growth
2022-2023
The years that followed were a time of steady development and refinement. Away from the spotlight, I invested in deepening the design language of Sanyan — experimenting with silhouettes, fabrics, and the balance between structure and versatility. This was also when our values of sustainability and mindful production became clearer, preparing the ground for bold expansion.
Expansion & Vision
2024
2024 marked a bold new chapter. Leaving behind my career as a learning and development professional, I stepped fully into Sanyan with both courage and conviction. My vision was clear: to shift the narrative of African print from occasionwear to a fabric of everyday life — capable of moving effortlessly from formal moments to the simplicity of the everyday. Our tagline, “Feel special every day,” captured this spirit.
That year, a lifelong dream was realised with the opening of our first studio — a space of creativity and connection. We brought our work to wider audiences through two fashion shows and unveiled a website. Each step expanded the reach of Sanyan, helping more women see themselves reflected in our designs while reinforcing our belief in slow fashion that lasts beyond seasons.
Evolution & Renewal
2025
By 2025, Sanyan had matured into a brand with a clear, confident voice. I stepped forward as Creative Director and face of the brand, guiding its vision and design language. My partner took on a more behind-the-scenes role, focusing on developing and strengthening partnerships with small manufacturing and fabric supplier businesses in West Africa — a key part of our commitment to sustainability and authentic heritage.
This year also marks the launch of a brand-new website, the project currently at the heart of my work — a platform designed to share our story more widely, showcase our collections with clarity, and connect with women around the world. The commitment remains unchanged: to create modern, versatile, slow-fashion designs that bring connection, joy, and confidence to the women who choose them.
