On the heels of a life-altering trip to Ghana, West Africa, where they fell in love with African fashion and textiles, Cindy Gaston and Edna Bissoon launched Hemma, a collection of luxury womenswear that incorporates the same, traditional techniques that have been used to weave fabrics for African nobility for centuries. Hemma affords each client an opportunity to dress with undeniable contemporary style while indulging in the textures and richness of royalty. The name Hemma derives from the word “ohemma,” meaning queen in the Twi language of Ghana.In the spring of 2007, partners Cindy Gaston and Edna Bissoon studied abroad in Ghana, West Africa. While Cindy, pursued a career in law, and Edna, medicine, they also independently designed. They were inspired by African fashion and textiles, in particular intricately handwoven Kente. Drawing from its rich history, they began incorporating Kente into their designs. At the same time, they were dedicated to volunteering as teachers at La Yahoushua, a local middle school. The passion for their students transcended the classroom as they advised a photography club extending to many students their first opportunity to capture the world around them. Once back in New York, Edna and Cindy received such wide acclaim for their creations that they launched a lifestyle brand combining African luxury with a fresh spin on classic designs. 5% of all profits will be donated to the school where they both taught.
