Reflections on 2024 as we enter Sabahar’s 21st year
2024 has been a busy and productive year, but our 20th anniversary celebration stands out as THE key event. Founded in 2004, Sabahar’s vision was to sustain Ethiopia’s hand-weaving sector through creativity, diversification, and innovation, which would ensure economic impact for artisans, communities, and even entire countries. Two decades later, we’re proud of how far we've come.
Though we intentionally kept the celebration modest, it was made extra special by the presence of key figures in Sabahar's journey. Ellen Dorsch, founder of Creative Women — our most important partner for the past 20 years — and Maura Kroh Lall, its current owner, joined us. We’re deeply grateful for their vision and unwavering commitment, which remain crucial in Sabahar’s success.
We were also delighted to have Getachew Molla, our first production manager, join the celebration. Dyan Larmey, who helped seed the idea for Sabahar 23 years ago, also returned to share stories and memories.
In 2024, we had many memorable moments: we showcased our products at Source Fashion London in February, Paris Design Week in September, and at a pop-up shop with Studio Dianne in Ottawa. We also attended and spoke at the WFTO Fair Trade Summit in Cape Town, and exhibited at both the Artisan and Designers’ Bazaars in Addis Ababa, as well as the Ethiopia Sourcing and Fashion Week trade show.
This year, we launched several new products, including tea towels (a smaller version of our popular hand towels), as well as new napkin designs, table runners, and placemats.
We also introduced some stunning new scarves and shawls, focusing on practical, winter wear.
Looking ahead
We are very excited to be revisiting and renewing our strategic plan which will provide guidance and direction for the next five years. We will be asking ourselves some critical, but tough questions: what have we accomplished? what have we learned? what can we do better? how can we stay true to our vision? It seems fitting that we go through this process as we start our 21st year of operation.
We are forever thankful of all our partners, supporters, visitors, encouragers, and friends who helped us get to where we are today. We warmly welcome any ideas or feedback you may like to contribute to our planning process. Our ears are always open… please send all suggestions to info@sabahar.com (we really L-O-V-E to hear from you).
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU
WE WELCOME 2025 WITH HOPES OF PEACE AND WELL BEING.