Sammy Ethiopia Employs Artisans to Create Ethical Fashion Accessories

Founded in 2008 by Sammy Abdella and Holly Hikido, Sammy Ethiopia is creating employment opportunities for artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's largest city, and bringing local craftsmanship to an international level with their line of luxury scarves and leather goods.

Luxury scarves are hand-stitched and hand-woven using ancient techniques. Local craftsman make their leather goods, which feature fine details such as hand-printed cotton lining, traditional bead embellishments and embroidery.

Available in a bevy of bright hues, the bags are available online at Barneys.com. Select scarves and bags are available in-store at retail locations around the globe.

Sammy employs 400 local artisans

and craftsman in and around Addis Ababa to create their accessories line. They have grown considerable since their launch in 2008 with 50 employees. All workers receive a fair wage, safe working conditions, and an opportunity to advance their skillet. Most recently, Sammy started work Wrap Up Africa, a non-profit organization that provides sustainable employment and a market for goods produced by parents of children with cancer.

They also collaborate with a number of local community organizations and cooperatives to identify individuals in need of entry-level positions. Sammy partners with Beza Le Hiwot and Wegen Aden, who work to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS; Berhan Taye, who work with those affected with leprosy; and Zewai Women's Cooperative, who teach sewing and embroidery to women. These collaborations are rooted in Sammy Ethiopia's overall aim to decrease poverty in the country.

Up next for the Addis Ababa-based brand? They're working on a home furnishing collection and a series of capsule collection collaborations with notable figures.
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