ABOUT ME

I’m Selma, the founder and designer behind Nawa Origins, a jewelry and design project rooted in story, heritage, and handcraft.

Born in Namibia and now based in Norway, I draw from my Oshiwambo heritage, but my influences reach beyond that from various traditions, surrealist art, film and surroundings. All these threads shape the way I create.

The name “Nawa” means “good” in Oshiwambo, so Nawa Origins literally means Good Origins. It reflects both my heritage and my commitment to crafting pieces made with good origins and intentions.

Every piece you see here is made by my hands.

I am a self-taught, evolving jeweler learning through practice, experimentation, and LOTS of patience. I mainly want to translate the objects I imagine into physical form, and each piece carries traces of that journey.

With a background in environmental engineering and sustainable energy, I try to approach jewelry through a lens of responsibility and consciousness. I work slowly, in small quantities, often using upcycled or found materials alongside different metals like silver and raw gemstones sourced from local markets and independent vendors.

I’m still building toward fully ethical operations, and I believe transparency matters more than polished claims. As Nawa Origins grows, so does my commitment to better materials, better processes, and deeper accountability.

Nawa Origins is still unfolding but my vision is clear, I want to build a body of work that feels timeless, rooted, and has a positive impact in the world. Jewelry is just the beginning.

Thank you for being here. I hope you find something that resonates.