“My name is Florence Eshun. I was born in Accra, Ghana. Jewelry making is my specialty. My friends say that I’m... selfless, hardworking and generous.

“As a fashion designer, I love for people to look good. This got me interested in jewelry crafting with recycled beads. Madam Adwoa Mavis taught me the craft, and I under-studied with another artisan to master the craft. I occasionally teach my sister when she visits.

“Recycled beads and African print fabrics are the materials I use. I buy all my materials from the market, and they are very good to work with. I get my inspiration from nature. The beauty that results from a careful combination of the different colors and shades of beads is my favorite thing about this craft.

“It was fulfilling starting on my own, but at one point, I experienced serious financial difficulties that forced me to sell my own clothes in order to make ends meet. Along with my financial difficulties, I also had some embarrassing moments. I once went on a blind date with a gentleman, only to meet him and realize he was an old man with two wives! It was so embarrassing! I later entered into fashion design and dress making, which helped me out of my financial difficulties.

“My dream for the future is to be able to support the homeless and needy in my community, empower women, and contribute to the reduction of poverty in Africa. My plan is to open my own shop within the next few years and to help train other artisans, especially women. My craft encourages the empowerment of women in my local community, and it motivates the youth to enter the jewelry-making craft.”