Minga is an independent, women-led brand based between California, USA and Imbabura, Ecuador. We are a community centered around conscious creation and care. Together we create timeless wearables and experiences that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship.
Our mission
We are here to engage in creative collaboration and artisanal experiments in order to offer timeless products, celebrate world-class craftspeople and extend inspiration to our community and our partners.
Our name
Minga is a social enterprise born in the Andes mountains of Ecuador. In the territory where our products are made, the Kichwa concept of “Minga” inspired the mission we carry until today.
What is a minga? When a task is too large for the individual, a minga is organized. The whole community participates and makes the task a reality through collective collaboration. This is how houses are built, crops are harvested and roads are kept well.
In 2018, we launched our first collection after partnering with a small group of talented women in the highlands of Ecuador. We spent months living with this community to understand their story and craft. This season birthed our vision to create beautiful products through sustainable and traditional means.
What started with a few simple bags grew into a collection of thoughtful accessories and clothing. Over the years, we have expanded to work with various artisan groups and family-run studios.
Today, Minga is growing authentically alongside our artisan partners and global community of supporters. We are an ever-expanding community constantly choosing a different rhythm than mainstream fashion, one that remains true to ourselves and our Earth.
Our values
We understand that each individual has a story to share and their own unique viewpoint. We acknowledge the life-changing impact that can arise from heartfelt conversations and sharing experiences. Our purpose is to bridge the gap and showcase the stories and art of those we collaborate and work with.
We believe in the power of unity to achieve greatness. We're more than a brand; we're fostering a community of storytellers, creatives, and conscious individuals. Our community comes first, and we're dedicated to offering products, stories and experiences that will bring them insight, inspiration, connection and value.
We work with raw materials, like natural dyes and plant fibers, that come from the same place that we come from. We are guided by the natural cycles and rhythms within ourselves to help us stay in tune with our values. We do our best to cut down on waste and consider each step of the process in our work.
