Our Story
Jordina Hemstock
Founder
The traditional textile crafts of Nagaland and North East India are my lifelong passion. The road to Senyü has been long and eventful, with many challenges along the way, but I am delighted to share the story so far…
Our roots...
The Northeast region of India, often referred to as the “Seven Sisters,” encompasses a wealth of diverse cultures and crafts. From the intricate handloom textiles to bamboo crafts and pottery, each state within the region boasts its own unique craft practices. Coming from Nagaland, a land of vibrant indigenous tribes nestled in the Himalayan foothills, I grew up in a world where handloom weaving was not just an art, but a cherished tradition passed down from mothers to daughters. One of my earliest memories of Naga handloom weaving is sitting beside my grandmother’s backstrap loom, watching her weave.
Our beginnings...
My early exposure to handloom textiles ignited a passion that led me to pursue fashion design. During my postgraduate studies in Bangalore, I earned recognition for blending traditional handloom textiles with contemporary designs. Later, I founded Clo, a sustainable fashion label promoting the craftsmanship of Northeast India. This inspired me to pursue a Master of Arts in Design at Northumbria University, focusing on sustainability and cultural preservation. Although financial constraints prevented a Ph.D., I redirected my efforts into launching Senyü.
Our name...
“Senyü” (sen-yuh) refers to a sub-clan of the main clan in the indigenous language of the Western Angami (Jotsoma) region of Nagaland. To me, Senyü represents a community of individuals deeply committed to earth-conscious, sustainable living, united in preserving our planet and safeguarding cherished, age-old craft practices for future generations. Senyü aims to preserve the ancient art of backstrap loom weaving and to promote and help sustain craft practices of the Northeast India by providing economic opportunities for both seasoned craftpeople and the younger generation.
Our purpose...
The rich, authentic craftsmanship of Northeast India is often overshadowed by offerings from other central regions due to the remote locations and the lack of accessible platforms to showcase their work. Senyü is committed to changing this by highlighting the unique craft heritage of Northeast India and celebrating its contributions to the world of handcrafted goods. By providing a platform for skilled makers from this region, Senyü seeks to bring their work into the spotlight and ensure their rich traditions are recognised and appreciated globally. Senyü reflects my commitment to providing economic opportunities for craftpeople, many from marginalised communities in remote villages. By offering them a global platform, we’re not just selling products, we’re sharing stories, building connections, and breaking down barriers. Senyü’s mission is to preserve, promote, and empower, reminding us that we are all connected by a shared humanity and planet.