Our Story

Preserving Ghana's Heritage Through Authentic Craftsmanship

NorthUp was born from a deep respect for Ghana's rich cultural heritage and a commitment to ensuring these timeless traditions continue to thrive in the modern world.

Ghanaian artisan at work
6+
Years
150+
Artisans

Our Impact

Measuring success through the positive impact we create in artisan communities

👥
150+
Artisan Partners
🏘️
25
Communities Supported
📦
10K+
Products Sold
🌍
35
Countries Served
💰
$2M+
Fair Trade Revenue
6+
Years of Experience

Our Mission & Values

We believe that authentic craftsmanship is not just about creating beautiful objects—it's about preserving cultural identity, empowering communities, and building bridges between traditions and modernity.

🏛️

Cultural Preservation

Safeguarding traditional Ghanaian crafts and techniques for future generations while honoring our ancestors' wisdom.

🤝

Artisan Empowerment

Providing fair wages, skill development, and global market access to traditional craftspeople and their communities.

Authentic Quality

Maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship while preserving the authentic techniques and materials.

🌱

Sustainable Impact

Creating positive environmental and social impact through responsible sourcing and community development.

🌍

Global Connection

Bridging cultures by sharing the beauty and wisdom of Ghanaian heritage with the world.

💎

Heritage Innovation

Blending traditional techniques with contemporary design to create timeless, relevant pieces.

Our Journey

From humble beginnings to global impact—the milestones that shaped our story

2019

The Beginning

Founded with a mission to preserve and promote authentic Ghanaian craftsmanship globally.

2020

First Artisan Partnerships

Established relationships with 15 master artisans across 5 regions of Ghana.

2021

International Recognition

Received the African Heritage Preservation Award for outstanding cultural impact.

2022

Community Center Launch

Opened our first artisan training and development center in Kumasi.

2023

Global Expansion

Expanded to serve customers in 25 countries while maintaining our commitment to authenticity.

2024

Heritage Certification

Launched our Cultural Authenticity Certification program with UNESCO partnership.

2025

Artisan Academy

Established the NorthUp Artisan Academy to train the next generation of craftspeople.

Meet Our Team

The passionate individuals driving our mission to preserve and promote Ghanaian heritage

Kwame Nkrumah Asante
Cultural Preservation
Sustainable Business

Kwame Nkrumah Asante

Founder & CEO

A passionate advocate for Ghanaian culture with 15 years in cultural preservation and sustainable business development.

MBA - University of Ghana Business School
Akosua Osei-Bonsu
Design
Traditional Arts

Akosua Osei-Bonsu

Creative Director

Award-winning designer specializing in contemporary interpretations of traditional Ghanaian aesthetics.

MA Fine Arts - Kwame Nkrumah University
Kofi Mensah
Artisan Development
Quality Assurance

Kofi Mensah

Artisan Relations Manager

Former master weaver turned advocate, bridging traditional craftspeople with modern markets.

Traditional Apprenticeship - Kente Weaving
Ama Darko
Operations
Supply Chain

Ama Darko

Operations Director

Supply chain expert ensuring ethical sourcing and fair compensation for all artisan partners.

BSc Supply Chain Management - GIMPA

Our Heritage Promise

Every piece we share carries the soul of Ghana—the wisdom of our ancestors, the skill of our artisans, and the promise of a future where traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive and inspire.

When you choose NorthUp, you're not just purchasing a product; you're becoming part of a story that spans generations, supporting communities, and helping preserve the cultural treasures that make Ghana unique.

Sankofa - Learning from the past to move forward