POLE POLE Mission

 

Our Mission: The Story of Pole Pole

In the heart of Africa, where culture and color blend harmoniously, Pole Pole was born—a brand that embodies dignity, empowerment, and growth. This journey began with Mama Gabry, a visionary known for her compassion and determination. During her travels across Africa, she saw how poverty overshadowed beauty and realized that charity alone wasn’t enough. Inspired by the words of Gino Strada, "Teach how to fish, don’t just give the fish," she directed her mission towards sustainable empowerment.

Driven by this vision, Mama Gabry used her expertise in the textile industry to support local women, many of whom worked with vintage sewing machines. She saw the potential in combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs, giving life to Pole Pole—which means "slowly, slowly" in Swahili—honoring the philosophy of patience and gradual growth.

From Vision to Reality

At Pole Pole, community is essential. Each artisan contributes unique skills, promoting collaboration and shared knowledge. This unity has helped them understand the value of their work, instilling them with craft pride.

A set of 28 turtles, with one turned backwards, became a powerful symbol for Mama Gabry. Like that turtle, she guides others toward a better future, believing that even small gestures can create waves of change.

Pole Pole is more than a brand; it is a movement that celebrates African craftsmanship and community resilience. Every purchase supports this mission, creating a sustainable future, one handmade piece at a time.

 

Join the Movement

 

We wear our values with pride. Together, we can elevate communities and create a sustainable future, where every individual can shine. Welcome to Pole Pole—where fashion meets purpose, and every stitch tells a story of hope.