Our Story
Meet the founder
Daniella Umutoni – Founder & CEO
IMITAKO ARTS & CRAFTS LTD
Born in Kayonza, Eastern Province of Rwanda, Daniella grew up surrounded by the beauty of traditional weaving, a skill passed down from her mother. What began as a family tradition slowly transformed into a purpose-driven mission.
Raised in a rural village with limited opportunities and strict values, Daniella saw firsthand the struggles of young girls—especially those who dropped out of school and became mothers at a young age. She knew that their challenges were not just personal but part of a much bigger story of lost potential and untapped talent.
Determined to create change, Daniella began teaching basket weaving to young women in her community. What started as small gatherings with a few girls quickly grew into a movement that restored dignity, hope, and opportunity. From this vision, IMITAKO ARTS & CRAFTS LTD was born.
Today, IMITAKO supports over 50 young single mothers, with a dream to expand into weaving centres across all 5 provinces and 30 districts of Rwanda, and ultimately across Africa. Through weaving, IMITAKO preserves culture, empowers women, and creates sustainable futures for families.
Daniella’s inspiration remains deeply personal. At 75 years old, her mother is still weaving—proof that this craft is not just art, but resilience, heritage, and a gift that can be passed on for generations.
“We are mothers. We can change the nation.”
And through IMITAKO, that vision is becoming a reality—one basket, one mother, and one community at a time.