... is a reference to all the times refugees have been called 'The Refugee' instead of the people behind it.
People forced to flee are much more than their legal status in a new country.
- and * in the logo represent that there is more behind. The people behind it.
They are capable , admirable, knowledgeable, fashionable, remarkable and much, much more.
This is the message I want to convey with The -able: to share more of people's stories through beautiful products and the narratives that accompany them.
I founded The -able in 2022 after living and working with people forced to flee in Greece and Lebanon. During this time, I witnessed the incredible skill and rich cultural heritage that many carry with them, as well as the challenges they face in making a living from their craft in unfamiliar environments.
The -able is my response to these challenges, offering support to the artisans who create these beautiful products. I work directly with artisans and local NGOs to ensure that all profits go to those who create the products. For these artisans, their craft is both a means to share their stories and a pathway to economic independence.
The -able is for those who wish to make a positive impact and support crafts with a purpose. Join us in giving voice to the talented people behind these products, sharing their stories, and contributing to a more inclusive future.
How we work
From Survival to Thriving
We work to provide people forced to flee with greater ownership and freedom through dignified job opportunities and the creation of new communities. Many of our artisans have endured the hardships of fleeing war and conflict, losing much more than just their homes. By participating in The -able's projects, they gain the opportunity to join new social and work communities in a safe environment. This not only helps them achieve financial independence for themselves and their families but also allows them to regain control over their lives—something that is often difficult to establish in a new country, especially during the asylum process. It's about more than just surviving; it's about living fully and with dignity.
Strong Partnerships
Partnerships are at the core of The -able's work. We collaborate closely with artisans in an open design process that places their knowledge and craftsmanship at the forefront. Simultaneously, we work with local NGOs who possess deep insights into their communities and understand what is most needed. Our partnerships go beyond production; we also engage in projects like English teaching and other educational initiatives that align with the artisans' aspirations and needs. For us, partnerships are not just about creating products—they're about building a better future together. We view our relationships as long-term investments in both people and society, with a focus on achieving a lasting positive impact for everyone involved, where craftsmanship is just one of many important elements in this journey.
Caring for People and the Planet
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at The -able, but we recognize that we produce physical products. That’s why we take a thoughtful approach to minimizing our environmental footprint by using recycled materials, such as plastic from refugee camps and deadstock fabric. At the same time, we prioritize social sustainability by ensuring that our work leads to long-term improvements for the communities and people we collaborate with. Our goal is to create products that are not only durable and high-quality but also have a positive impact on both the environment and the artisans who craft them. By integrating social and environmental sustainability into every aspect of our production, we strive to create a lasting, positive impact for both people and the planet.
