The Story of Jay-Ford Crafts

Jay-Ford Crafts began during my university days at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). In my second year, I lived in a hostel at Bomso, located beside a street filled with seamstress shops. Every evening, the seamstresses would burn their fabric waste, and the smoke would drift into our rooms. My roommate and I suffered greatly from the fumes, often waking up with sore throats and infections.

One day, we decided to visit the seamstresses and ask if we could collect their fabric waste instead of burning them. We wanted to see how we could reuse the materials and reduce the smoke pollution.

At the time, I was already exploring the use of African print fabrics for my final-year project, where I created beautiful landscape artworks using fabric scraps. Inspired by this, I began sewing pieces of the waste fabrics together and using them to cover my books.

People quickly noticed and admired the designs. What started as a simple experiment soon became something more. Encouraged by the positive response, I began to commercialize the idea. Within a year, a small business had been born, creating notebooks covered with upcycled African print fabrics.

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but this moment marked a significant breakthrough for me.

Over the years, the business grew. I eventually relocated operations to Accra, where we expanded our capabilities. We began printing the books ourselves and sourcing fabrics in larger quantities, while still partnering with local seamstresses to collect and upcycle their fabric waste.

As the business evolved, we also began upcycling our own fabric scraps to create bookmarks, book covers, and other creative products. What started as handmade notebooks eventually grew into a broader enterprise that now includes commercial printing and book publishing.

Why the Rebrand?

Jay-Ford was established in 2010, and this year marks 16 years of our journey.

The number sixteen carries special meaning for us. In the Bible, John 3:16 reminds us of God's love for the world. When the digits are added together (1 + 6), they equal seven, which symbolizes completeness and perfection in scripture.

We believe this milestone represents the perfect moment to return to our roots and give the company a name that reflects both our heritage and our vision.

Introducing: Vaabon Yuure Ltd

I was raised by Christian parents, and my faith has always been a guiding force in my life and business. My father particularly loves the scripture:

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” — Proverbs 13:22

He has lived by this principle, and his example has deeply influenced me.

The new name Vaabon Yuure Ltd reflects this philosophy.

• Vaabono in my local dilect (Grunne) represents property and value preserved for the future.

• Yuure signifies a respected name, honor, and an enduring reputation.

Together, the name expresses our commitment to building value, preserving legacy, and creating wealth that outlives us.

As we step into this new chapter, we remain deeply grateful.

To our customers who have supported us over the years, thank you. To our incredible team, thank you for your dedication.

And may God continue to bless us all.

Writen by:

Jemimah Alemna

Founder

Vaabon Yuure Ltd (formerly Jay-Ford Company)