siamanda chege

Siamanda Emily Chege is the founder of BebeRavi collections and the Chege Orphanage, a socially-conscious entrepreneur.

Siamanda created a clothing and accessories line BébéRavi after witnessing the dire conditions of women in her native Kenya. Sparked by the country's almost 40 percent unemployment rate and many families devastated by AIDS, she set about employing local village women so they could provide better futures for themselves and their children. Through this company they are able to provide for their families.

Siamanda has worked to create markets in the United States for products manufactured by these women.

The merchandise has been previously stocked in high end stores like Barneys, FAO Swartz, ABC home and carpet to name a few. There also have been collaborations with a women store Calypso and currently in talks with J. Crew.

Siamanda has also founded "The Chege Orphanage", a non-for-profit organization located in Nakuru, Kenya. The orphanage is a safe haven for 26 children orphaned by the AIDS virus. The orphanage keeps the children close to their community while providing them with housing in apartment style units. They also go to school and have access to extracurricular activities, including sports, art and music programs.

Siamanda lives in New York City with her 2 daughters Siole and Sayana Mayeski. She spends her summers in Kenya working with her 2 organizations. Siamanda has been featured on MSNBC, CBS, newspaper clips and various blogs.