- By Rejoyce Ikuambi
In the world of Namibian fashion, one name stands out for its dedication to craftsmanship and cultural storytelling, KVRO Accessories. Founded by Rebecca Uukongo, widely known as Becca, the brand is a testament to passion, resilience, and the deep-rooted history of beadwork in Namibia and Africa. Becca, a professional fashion designer and self-taught accessories creator, embarked on her journey quite serendipitously. In search of the perfect beaded anklet, one she couldn’t find anywhere, she decided to make it herself. What started as a personal project soon became a deep passion. Friends admired her handcrafted pieces and frequently asked where she got them, inspiring her to share her craft with a wider audience. Thus, KVRO Accessories was born.
For Becca, beaded jewellery is more than just adornment; it’s a deeply personal and cultural journey. Her craft unexpectedly connected her to her late mother, who also made beadwork for a living. Learning this part of her family’s history made her work even more special. Through her brand, she has fostered a community where customers share their personal experiences wearing her creations, leading to a picture-storytelling series that celebrates these connections. Beadwork has long been intertwined with Namibian culture, yet it often carries misconceptions. KVRO Accessories takes inspiration from traditional beadwork while also educating customers about its historical significance. Becca’s goal is not only to preserve cultural artistry but to modernise it in a way that appeals to contemporary fashion lovers.
Initially focused solely on anklets, KVRO Accessories has since expanded to a diverse range of beaded accessories, including bags and corsets. With Becca’s creative vision, the brand continues to evolve, with new designs and projects in the pipeline. She remains excited about the endless possibilities of beadwork and how it can be incorporated into modern fashion. As for upcoming trends, Becca is particularly excited about the resurgence of pearls in both jewellery and clothing. She looks forward to exploring how KVRO Accessories can contribute to this evolving trend. Looking ahead, she envisions the brand growing into a full-fledged accessories label catering to both men and women for various occasions, solidifying its place in Namibia’s fashion industry.
Instagram has played a pivotal role in KVRO Accessories’ success, allowing Becca to showcase her creativity and engage with a broader audience. Even on challenging days, positive customer feedback and online bookings motivate her to keep going. Social media has not only expanded her reach within Namibia but has also established her brand as a force in the local fashion industry.
Like many entrepreneurs, Becca has faced her fair share of challenges. From negative backlash to sourcing quality materials from outside Namibia and dealing with competitors who mimic her work at lower prices, the journey hasn’t always been easy. However, she remains steadfast in her commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that KVRO Accessories maintains its unique identity in the market. She encourages aspiring jewellery designers to remain focused on their goals, embrace failures as learning opportunities, and persevere despite challenges. In the end, she assures us,
the rewards make every struggle worthwhile.
KVRO Accessories is not just about jewelry, it’s about honoring heritage, resilience, and creative expression. As the brand continues to grow, it serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with passion and perseverance, artistry can become a thriving business.
