By: Staff Writer
Sesilia Ndamangululwa Hamukwaya, an accounting student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) is the founder of Crafted by Veed, a handmade beadwork business that was established in 2025.
Although the business launched in 2025, the idea was born in 2017, when Hamukwaya was just 10 years old and made a jewellery box that she sold to her uncle for N$100.
“At that age, I already imagined myself running a beadwork business, making beautiful products and selling them to people who appreciated handmade art,” Hamukwaya told The Villager.
She quickly realised that crafting items with her own hands could be a genuine source of income.
“It was a dream that many people around me did not believe was realistic, but it was something I genuinely wanted to pursue,” she added.
At her tender age, she had the wherewithal to create a business plan, which included the price of materials, a weekly output target, and revenue estimates.
However, the pessimism she received when sharing her vision with those closest to her resulted in her putting the business on hold for some time.
“As I grew older, I realised that there were not many people in the beadwork industry of Namibia, and I began seeing an opportunity to develop the craft into a business,” the Omuntele native stated.
She added that she felt that there was room for more creativity, elegance and different designs in the local industry.
“To me, beadwork is not just something people should look at as an ordinary craft. It can be used to create elegant pieces that complement different outfits and occasions. I believe that handmade beadwork deserves to be appreciated for the time, creativity and effort that goes into producing it,” she explained.
It took until she began her tertiary education for Hamukwaya to revisit her business plan. Hamukwaya found herself struggling financially whilst in University and used the moment to have her skills generate income for her.
“I had difficulties meeting some of my university expenses and ended up owing the institution money. I started thinking about how I could use the skills I had to generate income and support my daily needs, including transport and personal necessities.
That was when I decided to revisit the business idea I had carried since childhood,” she explained.
That is how Crafted by Veed was born.
“The VEED represents Very Elegant and Extraordinary Design, which reflects the kind of work I want the business to be known for,” Hamukwaya expressed.
Hamukwaya explained that one of the biggest challenges she faces is balancing university and entrepreneurship. “When I receive large orders, beadwork can demand a lot of time and attention,” she said.
Another challenge she identified is helping customers understand how handmade products are made and why certain payment arrangements are necessary.
“For example, I have a 50% deposit policy. The deposit allows me to purchase materials and begin working on an order. However, some customers prefer to pay gradually or make arrangements that do not necessarily cover the cost of materials upfront. This can make it difficult for me to acquire the materials needed to complete their orders,” the young entrepreneur explained.
The experience has taught her financial planning, communication, patience, and the ability to make decisions that protect the business.
Another lesson she has learned is to believe in her business no matter what the outside world may say.
Hamukwaya explained that self-belief, determination, and consistency are necessary for the success of her business.
Hamukwaya has hopes of selling her products across the SADC region.
“I want the brand to represent the creativity that exists in Namibia and show that handmade products can have a place in the wider fashion industry,” Hamukwaya stated.
“I know that it will take time, and I am willing to take that time. I may not have all the resources I need today, but I still have the talent, the vision and the determination to keep working towards my goals,” she said.
