Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Siemens
Hi Diana , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Diana, and I live in Sunset, Utah. I have always had a passion for business and the drive to create something meaningful. Today, I run three businesses, each reflecting my love for entrepreneurship.
My journey started in Peru, where I grew up surrounded by the traditions of Andean. My ancestors passed down the art of working with wool. I was fascinated by the process of creating something beautiful with my own hands. This passion stayed with me as I moved to Utah, where I pursued my education and embraced new opportunities.
With my background in business and my love for handmade products, I launched KusiCraft, a brand specializing in high-quality alpaca wool neckties, stuffed animals, and other artisan products. Each piece is crafted with care, blending tradition with modern elegance. Through my business, I also support children in Peru, giving back to the community that shaped me.
At the same time, I have expanded my entrepreneurial journey by running two other businesses, each with its own unique purpose. Balancing multiple ventures while studying in the MBC program at the University of Utah has been a challenge, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Every step of this journey has reinforced my belief in hard work, creativity, and the power of staying true to my values.
I am excited about the future and the opportunities ahead, and I look forward to growing my businesses while continuing to make a positive impact.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Balancing school while managing multiple businesses is no easy task, and pursuing a Master in Business Creation in a second language adds another layer of difficulty. Every day requires determination, adaptability, and resilience as I navigate complex business strategies while also refining my communication skills in a non-native language. Despite the challenges, this journey has strengthened my ability to overcome obstacles, think critically, and push myself beyond my comfort zone. It’s a demanding but incredibly rewarding experience that fuels my passion for entrepreneurship and personal growth.
We’ve been impressed with kusi llc , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Kusi Handmade is a business that brings happiness through the art of craftsmanship. As the CEO and founder, I’ve been running Kusi since June 2019, and I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come. Our specialty is handmade neckties, but we also offer a variety of other artisan products, such as neckties handmade on a loom alpaca sweaters, alpaca socks, stuffed animals made with baby alpaca wool, and temple and university fan ties.
What sets Kusi apart is the deep connection to tradition and quality. Kusi means “happiness” in Quechua, and that’s exactly what our products bring to both us and our customers. We’re most proud of the joy we see when people discover our handmade items and the impact we’re able to make through our work, particularly in helping children in Peru attend school.
We sell our products in 8 locations across Utah, Idaho, and Illinois, offering both wholesale and retail options. In May 8, 2025. we’re excited to open our very first store in the Provo Towne Center Mall, marking a significant milestone for the business.
The journey has been fast-paced, but I feel time flies when I’m doing something I love. Every step we take is a reminder of how much happiness we bring through our products and the difference we make in the world
Kusi Handmade is a brand that reflects my deep passion for craftsmanship, tradition, and entrepreneurship. Rooted in the rich heritage of Andean culture, Kusi Handmade specializes in high-quality, handcrafted products, made using traditional techniques passed down through generations. We are proud to be officially licensed with Brigham Young University (BYU), the University of Utah, and other colleges, allowing us to create unique, school-branded artisan products.
One of our standout offerings is our handmade loom-woven neckties, which blend timeless artistry with modern elegance. In addition, we craft stuffed animals, sweaters, socks, and other artisan goods, ensuring that each piece is made with care and authenticity. Our commitment to handmade excellence and university partnerships allows us to bring meaningful, high-quality products to our customers while preserving tradition and supporting artisans.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My journey with Kusi Handmade would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents, Oscar and Virginia, my sister, Leslie, and my wonderful husband, Matthew. They have been my foundation, always encouraging me through every challenge. I am also deeply grateful to my mentors, Chuck and Andrew, whose guidance and wisdom have been invaluable in shaping my path.
I would also like to give credit to my classmates, who have continually inspired me and offered incredible advice throughout this journey. Their support and encouragement have been a constant source of motivation.
Additionally, I am incredibly thankful to my clients, who believe in my work and continue to return, trusting me to provide quality handmade products. Finally, I want to acknowledge the universities that have supported me with licenses, allowing me to bring Kusi Handmade’s products to a broader audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kusicraft.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kusi_llc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KusiLLC
