Mary Top and Mary Deng were born in South Sudan and spent their formative years as refugees in Ethiopia, before journeying to Australia and settling in Ballarat. Learning all too quickly how difficult it is for migrant and refugee women to find work in Australia, they began exploring the idea of establishing their own business.

Beginning with sewing lessons, followed by designing and manufacturing of aprons in their home garage, Mat Tetni soon became a cottage industry, selling aprons at local markets. Combining environmental consciousness with a passionate desire to celebrate and showcase the joyous colours of Africa, Mat Tetni aprons are skilfully crafted by teaming upcycled denim with vibrantly printed African fabrics.

Today, the business is located in a studio at the Ballarat Welcome Centre. Mat Tetni aprons are still sold at local markets, but you can now also find them on sale in Ballarat’s A Pot of Courage café, and online at Made by Many Hands. What’s more, Mary and Mary appeared in a recent episode of ABC TV’s series Movin’ to the Country (still available on iView)!