Rungano Nyamayedenga

Paper Pieces Jewellery

Jewellery maker

Wonai_Haruperi©Michelangelo_Foundation

A new beginning with paper beads

Rungano opened her workshop in 2018
She creates her beads using upcycled paper
Her aunt taught her the craft of hand rolling paper beads

Rungano Nyamayedenga has a BSc in Gender Studies and began creating paper beads in 2016. She was introduced to the craft by her aunt, Nyasha Mpunga-Manyau. Inspired by colour and passionate about sustainability and women’s economic empowerment, making paper beads became a lifeline for her. “I experienced a mental breakdown after changing universities and having to restart my degree in a new country.” In order to take care of her health Rungano thought about different creative outlets as a coping mechanism. This, coupled with the need to earn an income, led her back to making paper beads and jewellery, especially as she had everything she needed to start. Her journey with Paper Pieces, her sustainable jewellery workshop, formally began in 2018.

Interview

Wonai_Haruperi©Michelangelo_Foundation

Wonai_Haruperi©Michelangelo_Foundation

Do you remember when you were first introduced to your craft?: It was through my aunt in 2016. She had asked for my assistance with preparing for a crafting class. I watched her make paper beads and instantly picked up the technique. After the class, she gifted me a paper bead-making book, and I continued to learn.
What does training apprentices mean to you?: My goal is to expand the Paper Pieces workshop to implement train-the-trainer programmes for at least ten women in urban communities, who will then pass on handcrafting skills to others. Together, we will create sustainable, functional art that preserves Zimbabwean cultural traditions and incorporates paper beadwork into contemporary clothing.
What makes your paper beads sustainable?: What other people consider as waste is what we use to create beautiful pieces. Our beads are made from the paper used for packaging hair extensions, which we collect from local hairdressers to offer them a way to manage waste responsibly.
What do you love most about your profession?: Women’s economic empowerment is at the heart of my work. This commitment inspires the social impact model at Paper Pieces, which ensures that women who receive training have access to flexible working arrangements and a safe space where their wellbeing and advancement are prioritised. Designing each piece is also a way for me to care for my mental health, while creating accessories that others appreciate.

Rungano Nyamayedenga is a rising star: she began her career in 2016 and she started teaching in 2020