Most people know Eldoret as the high-altitude training ground that produces world champion long-distance runners. But for us, that region, specifically the areas spanning Uasin Gishu and Nandi Counties, is home. It’s where the women of our local community craft every pair of our small-batch espadrilles.
The recent success of our women athletes in the global championships was a moment of immense, shared pride. This isn't just a coincidence; it's a reflection of the core values that thrive here:
1. The Power of Place: Our artisans’ workshop is just 20km outside of Eldoret, nestled in the same highlands that forge world-class endurance. There is a deep cultural value placed on discipline and perseverance: qualities essential for both running a marathon and hand-stitching a durable leather shoe.
2. Female Excellence: Just as these women dominate the global track, our social enterprise is focused on celebrating and enabling the skill of women in the local economy. We are empowering them to achieve excellence in their own field.
3. Connecting Skill to Global Stage: We see our products as our artisans’ global stage. They don't just make shoes; they put their mastery on display for the world, much like the athletes put their stamina on display.
The Distance Covered: From Adversity to Artisan Mastery
The global success of the Eldoret area's runners showcases their incredible physical stamina. But the real story is the mental and economic resilience shared by these athletes and our artisans.
We see it every day. Our artisan partners have often come from backgrounds with limited economic opportunity. The long-distance runner achieves financial stability through years of rigorous training; our artisan achieves it through consistent, disciplined effort mastering premium leatherwork. This focus on mastery over margin has allowed them to not just survive, but to thrive, funding their children’s education and building secure futures: one beautiful, high-quality product at a time. The common thread is the discipline to escape adversity through skill.
Next time you slip on our handcrafted espadrilles, remember you are wearing a piece of the determination and pride of this incredible region.