Goodee Presents

The Goodee Pillow: Meet the Artisans

An initiative that places equal importance on the quality of the products, the people who craft them, and their contribution to the world.

Photography by Trevor Stuurnman

Goodee Presents

The Goodee Pillow: Meet the Artisans

Photography by Trevor Stuurnman

The ideation behind the GOODEE Pillow is simple: As we create products that provide beauty, function, simplicity and ease for everyday living, we also create space to welcome others so we can rise together. In a world of instant gratification and fast fashion, GOODEE takes a countercultural step back to mindfully partner with makers who place equal importance on the quality of their products, the people who craft them, and their contribution to the world we inhabit.

In partnership with the EFI, and aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the series is brought to life using textiles from artisans in Burkina Faso and produced in Kenya through Artisan Fashion, a social cooperative.

Artisan Fashion is a production company that connects African artisans with some of the most recognized brands globally. Based in Athi River, Kenya, they work to create socially significant items engaging over 1,000 artisans, in return providing these artisans with a fair wage and greater economic freedom. Through collaboration with the International Trade Centre Ethical Fashion Initiative and the R.I.S.E. framework monitoring, Artisan Fashion ensures their business is socially and environmentally responsible.

Photography by Artisan Fashion

Gladys

26 years old, born in Makuel

"My wish for the future is to have many jobs so that our families, our future will be a bright one."

How long have you been with Artisan Fashion?

Been working here for 3 years

What is your role?

I’m the supervisor of the preparation

John

born in Western Kenya

"I can share my knowledge to empower somebody and then when he gets out of here, he's or her is able to acquire food for the family, take kids to school. I feel proud of myself after that."

How long have you been with Artisan Fashion?

I've been working here since 2014

What is your role?

I’m the production manager