Today we’d like to introduce you to Jovanna Robinson.
Hi Jovanna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I began my journey as a bag designer while getting my Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design at Columbus College of Art & Design. I designed and made my first leather bag for a class project. I fell in love with the leather craftwork and designing bags. After getting a positive response from my peers and strangers in stores, I realized this can be something. I decided to learn more and dive into the world of leather craft and pursue a career as a bag designer.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No! It’s felt long because my business is bootstrapped by me. Learning leathercraft and also what it takes to be a businesswoman and a solopreneur. It’s been challenging doing everything myself. Designing and making the bags as well as building the business by being the marketer and run the business as well. I’ve learned to give myself grace and that this is my journey. To enjoy the journey and the ride but also consistency and perseverance is key! Looking back is has not been easy. But going after your dreams never is easy right! Now in retrospect, as far as smooth, I haven’t had a lot of bumps or opposition, people love my bags and I get so much love for what I am doing. So I am very appreciative of the favor I have.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I design and handcraft leather travel bags and accessories for men and women. I specialize in leather backpacks, weekenders, totes, crossbodys, wallets, and clutches. I am known mostly for being a leathersmith. I am most proud of how much my business has grown and that it is becoming known in the City of Columbus. I am set apart because you don’t find many African American women leathercraftsmen, making dope bags of great quality every day!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
That I am persistent in going after my dream, not letting anyone or anything stop me from being a well-known bag designer.
Contact Info:
- Email: talktous@tonebekka.com
- Website: https://tonebekka.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonebekka/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToneBekka
Image Credits
Rob The Moment Photography
