“When I think about the women who’ve shaped my perspective, my mom and grandmother stand out. My mom spent years working as a graphic designer, but in her 60s, she shifted to painting. This change sparked a new creative energy, allowing her to reconnect with herself and her creative spirit in a more personal, expressive way.  

Watching her navigate this transition showed me that creativity isn’t confined to any stage of life. It can evolve and take on new forms at any point. Her openness to change and willingness to try something new has impacted how I approach my work.  

On the other hand, my grandmother taught me the importance of resourcefulness. She would repurpose kimono fabric and other found textiles to make practical items like drawstring bags and dolls. Nothing went to waste for her, and she saw potential in even the smallest pieces. She showed me that creativity isn’t about having a lot of material—it’s about making something beautiful with what you have.  

Both my mom and grandmother taught me resilience and resourcefulness. My mom balanced being an artist, mother, and business owner, always finding a way to make it work. For her, art and life were always intertwined. My grandmother demonstrated how to repurpose what you have, seeing value and potential in everything.” 

“Being a woman deepens my connection to the emotional and sensory aspects of creating, which naturally influences my work. Historically, women in Japan have played a central role in preserving tradition and culture, primarily through textile arts and family heirlooms. I feel a sense of responsibility to honor and continue that legacy.  

This tradition shapes my approach to creativity. Whether I’m mending, reimagining hand-sewn techniques, or working with vintage materials, these acts aren’t just about making—they’re about respecting and continuing what was passed down. This sense of preservation and care is vital to how I approach my craft as a woman.  

There’s also an intuitive focus on the details—the texture of the fabric, the alignment of a stitch, and the subtle meaning woven into each piece. Japanese culture values careful, hands-on craftsmanship, and as a woman, I feel naturally connected to the attention to detail, texture, and meaning in the creative process. This attention to nuance and intention allows me to create work that carries meaning and tradition forward.” 

Sharon: “When I think about the women I admire most, I am drawn to those who take charge of their own destiny and fully embrace the magical power of femininity. Strength isn’t always loud or forceful—it can be found in resilience, creativity and the quiet determination to build a better future. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our incredible artisans, and they have become my greatest role models. These women do it all—they work, they mother, they create, they educate—all while navigating life with limited resources. Yet, they persist, and succeed, with grace, passion and an unbreakable spirit. Their stories are a testament to the infinite strength of the feminine, reminding us that true power lies in the ability to nurture, innovate, and uplift those around us.” 

Alex: “I admire women from all walks of life, especially those who embody resilience, creativity and a commitment to social justice. Doris Salcedo, one of my favorite Colombian artists, deeply resonates with me through her powerful installations. Berta Cáceres, who tirelessly fought for indigenous rights and the environment, and Marina Silva, with her dedication to protecting the Amazon, are true inspirations. I’m drawn to Patricia Urquiola's blend of styles and materials, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Tilda Swinton’s unique style, combined with the humor of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Sharon Horgan and Sophie Willan, also inspires me. I have immense respect for the women artisans we work with—many of whom face challenging economic or social circumstances. They manage to balance work, family, and life with remarkable resilience and love, and their strength is a daily source of inspiration.” 

Sharon: “As a working mother, I feel inherently wired to balance design with function—a perspective that has deeply influenced CasaLatina’s collections. I believe that beauty should never come at the expense of practicality, or vice versa; the objects we surround ourselves with should not only inspire but also serve a purpose in our daily lives. 

This mindset has led us to explore and incorporate ancient crafting techniques into the creation of everyday objects that are as useful as they are beautiful. Our pieces are designed to be cherished and enjoyed for years to come, blending tradition with modern living in a way that feels both natural and intentional. For me, being a woman means designing with empathy—understanding how objects fit into real homes and real lives. It’s about creating with both heart and purpose.” 

Alex: “As a female founder, I am especially attuned to building a fair and sustainable business model that benefits all involved. I place great importance on empowerment, creating a supportive network for our female artisans that nurtures their economic independence and helps them thrive. My love for traditional Latin American craftsmanship, combined with my background in the human rights sector, has provided a unique perspective that has deeply resonated with our audience at CasaLatina.” 

“My nan is a tough, strong and adventurous woman, even at 85 years old. She never gives up exploring new things and maintains her curiosity, regardless of her age. I truly admire her energy and inquisitiveness.”

“I’m not sure if being a woman has been an advantage, but people often use the term craftswoman rather than craftsguy or craftsman. I believe it’s less about gender and more about individual qualities. However, being a woman might bring a heightened sensitivity to touch and feel, which could help in designing objects that are more connected to human warmth and emotion.” 

“One story that really resonates with me is that of architect Léonie Geisendorf. She was born in Poland but spent most of her life in Sweden, dedicating herself completely to architecture. I was deeply moved by her passion and determination, especially when I learned about one project she worked on for over a decade. She fought tirelessly with the city governor to get it built, but sadly it never came to life—just like many of her other projects. Her story left a huge impression on me. It’s such a powerful example of someone who stayed true to what she loved, no matter the challenges.”