Hello, I'm Donna Sherwani, the founder of Shér & Seo, based in Melbourne | Naarm, Australia. With a background in law + international relations, I established Shér & Seo to bridge the gap between fashion + social justice, recognising the lack of sustainable alternatives to leather with a meaningful mission like ours. Our aim is to use fashion as a means to promote and contribute to social justice causes + issues. Our advocacy is centred on refugees, people seeking asylum, human rights, minority issues + climate change. We see these as interconnected issues that affect our planet + all its inhabitants. We believe that cruelty free, ethical, sustainable fashion accessories can truly change the world.
In 2022, after the birth of my second child, I received a life-changing diagnosis of spinal stenosis, putting me at risk of paralysis. This experience made me more determined to avoid leather products, because not only do I care about animals, but believe it's devastatingly sad to turn a natural wonder into mere goods. I swiftly embraced vegetarianism, eventually transitioning to a vegan lifestyle to embody the change I wished to see. While preparing for a trip to South Korea to reunite with our children's grandparents, I sought a bag. To my frustration, I couldn't find one that wasn't made of animal skin + eventually when I did find vegan alternatives, they lacked a compelling story or a meaningful mission. This led me to transform my bag drawings + designs into a reality, to make a positive difference in society as well as make a profit.
Fortunately, that change is now on the horizon.
Shér & Seo isn't just a handbag brand - it's a movement. The brand's rebel spirit and advocacy for social causes make it a standout in the fashion industry. This isn't just another bag brand, this is the real social warrior.
"Shér," meaning "lion" in Kurdish and forming a part of Donna's family name Sherwani, honours her heritage and strength, while her Korean husband's "Seo" surname, signifying "calm" complements her audacious endeavours. Together redefining courage, culture, and unity symbolised by the brand's name.
From championing diversity and inclusivity to supporting charitable causes, Shér & Seo is a female owned + led brand with a purpose. Customers who buy a Shér & Seo handbag aren't just making a fashion statement - they're joining a movement for positive change.
We refuse to stay silent. Shér & Seo stands as a beacon of hope and a platform for those who have been silenced for too long. We are committed to giving every individual a voice and the opportunity to be heard. Through our brand, we strive to empower and uplift those who have been marginalised and overlooked. We invite all like-minded individuals to join us in our mission for a more equitable and just world, and to use Shér & Seo as a vehicle for change, by empowering refugee youth and helping to create a world where everyone has a voice and a chance to thrive.
When we embarked on the journey of Shér & Seo, we knew it would be an adventure filled with surprises and unexpected twists. As we started dreaming, we carefully crafted a list of non-negotiables that we promise will remain steadfast throughout this extraordinary ride. We believe in change, but here’s what will never change:
