African Wood Mask, "Spirit of the Antelope"

Samuel, a true veteran of his craft, started carving in 1966. He is always sharing his talents by teaching his traditional techniques to anyone, including the younger generation and even tourists.

Samuel pays currently for the education of four children. Two are his children and two are not from his own family. Samuel is a gracious person with a big heart, which can be seen through his desire to help and enabling education for those outside of his family.

Samuel Okyere has received 6 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $300 and the most recent for $400. Proceeds were used to buy raw materials for his masks and hire assistants.

Samuel supports four children. Two of them are not related to him, but he would still like to help and support them.

Samuel currently gives work to full time helpers and often hires others as needed on a part-time basis.

This artist is an elder master and continues to actively practice their craft.