OUR STORY
OVER 20 YEARS OF WORK, RESILIENCE, AND COMMITMENT
THE BEGINNING
In 2002, a volcanic eruption destroyed much of the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, leaving over 300,000 people in extreme poverty.
In the face of this crisis, a small group of women launched the KISANY project, with the goal of providing a sustainable livelihood to those who had lost everything. The first embroidery atelier was born.
The success of the first hand-embroidered products allowed the team to grow. New artisans were trained, and a group of volunteers mobilized in Europe, led by Isabelle Degryse and Manuela del Marmol.
Since then, KISANY has grown into a social enterprise, while staying true to its original mission: combining high-quality craftsmanship with lasting social impact.
OUR MISSON
Empowering women and their families through work and financial independence.
KISANY's aim is to offer professional skills and create opportunities for dignified work in vulnerable communities in East Africa. By developing a market, and thanks to growing demand, we want to be part of long-term solutions to improve the lives of women in the DRC and Rwanda.
"EN AVANT LES ENFANTS" NON-PROFIT ASSOCIATION: OUR PARTNER
KISANY is a partner of Belgian non-profit organisation, En Avant Les Enfants. Through this partnership a portion of profit is directed to provide healthcare, education, micro-financing and social support in the Kivu region of DR Congo. Together we are helping to build a healthy ecosystem for communities and people to thrive.
OUR COMMITMENTS
1. Empower women with financial independence.
Over 20 years our partner artisans have grown in skill through training and regular work.
2. Create unique products of exceptional quality to last generations
Each KISANY product is a combination of the highest quality materials, stunning design, exquisite workmanship and enhanced by the social impact.
3. Ensure artisans are paid fairly and promptly to enable financial independence.
Partner artisans are paid a salary well above local standards and we strive to provide regular work and standardised pay.
4. Reallocate 30% of profits to support social projects with our partner NGO "En Avant Les Enfants".
Profits are directed to provide a variety of social support services and trainings in Kivu, DR Congo.
5. Provide holistic life skills as well as occupational training for women in East Africa.
More than 1300 lives have been transformed through work and our support and education programmes.
BECOME A PART OF OUR STORY!
By choosing KISANY, you’re not just decorating your home with elegance. You’re supporting a project of social transformation, living craftsmanship, and a better future for hundreds of women.