Elena Koletsi, the visionary behind the brand "MANITOU," was born in Athens. She graduated from Panteion University of Athens and pursued postgraduate studies in marketing due to her fascination with market dynamics and consumer behavior. Elena spent many years working in the marketing and advertising sectors before her artistic inclinations took over, steering her life in a new direction.

Her passion for painting, showcased through various exhibitions, and her desire to create tangible forms with her hands led her to work with leather. Inspired by bright colors and the fusion of Native American culture with the Winged God of Love (Eros)  from ancient Greek mythology, and her strong belief in angels, MANITOU was born.