SankoShi connects Rwanda makers to buyers

SankoShi starts in Rwanda, where owner Sophie Sankoh walks the markets herself instead of choosing products from afar.

Built on presence and trust

Owner Sophie Sankoh lives in Wetteren, Belgium, but travels through Rwanda herself to find the look she wants for the brand. She handpicks products from local traders and works closely with makers on the ground. In her interview, she gives a clear tip to people who want to source from Rwanda: “It is important to have good contact with the makers and build a strong bond of trust.” She adds that being present regularly in the beginning makes a real difference over time.

That approach shapes the business. SankoShi describes itself as a social enterprise that supports fair trade while offering unique handmade pieces. Everything is made by mothers in Rwanda who are trying to build a better life for their children. The brand links product design to income, independence and economic freedom for women.

Handmade pieces with a market in mind

Its best-selling products are handbags, travel bags, fans and bomber jackets. New collections arrive regularly, and some pieces are made through customer requests and input. Even the models have changed. Some have become slightly larger because customers asked for that.

Sankoh says all goods are correctly cleared through customs. She also explains how the business approaches pricing: “We first look at our costs and make sure that the people in Rwanda are paid correctly.” From there, SankoShi calculates prices that stay accessible while allowing the project to remain sustainable.

The company has now restarted its website and will open a summer pop-up in Wetteren, Belgium, from 28 June. That gives SankoShi a fresh window to show how handmade products from Rwanda can reach the market without losing the human touch sewn into every piece.

Follow SankoShi on Instagram and Facebook to see new collections, handmade pieces from Rwanda and updates on the upcoming pop-up in Belgium.