Our story
From La Guajira to Brisbane
Mochila was founded by Kellys Carreño, who was born and raised in Riohacha, La Guajira. Her connection with Wayuu communities and her life in Australia shaped a simple idea: share colourful handwoven bags while keeping the people and tradition behind them visible.
Each available bag is selected individually and photographed as the exact piece you will receive.
- Rooted in La Guajira A personal connection that began in Riohacha, Colombia
- Handwoven by Wayuu artisans Traditional skill, distinctive colour and genuine variation
- The exact bag you choose The photographed piece is the piece sent to you
Why Mochila
A living tradition, woven by hand
“Mochila” is the Spanish word commonly used for these shoulder bags. In Wayuunaiki, the traditional bag is known as a susu.
Every pattern, colour choice and small variation carries the character of handwoven craft. We want customers to see that character clearly—and, whenever the maker is known, to meet the artisan connected to their bag.
A note from Kellys
A personal connection, carried forward
Growing up in Riohacha gave Kellys a lasting connection to La Guajira and its communities. Moving to Australia made her want to share that colour, knowledge and craftsmanship with a new home.
Mochila is the bridge between those two places: close to its Colombian roots and centred on the women whose skill gives each bag its character.
Dancing, caring for others and my passion for Mochila—that’s me in a nutshell.Choose your one-of-a-kind bag