Two years ago Aaliyah
faced a big decision. Her father was closing Dondoors. If at 23 she was to set up business, Aaliyah had to find a new location, establish contacts, get a new
telephone number, obtain machines, decide
on what products to focus on, design and make samples to take to the market all
while finishing her Bachelors’ Degree in Architecture. What she has done is amazing! Previously, Aaliyah had helped her father
with design. She now runs the
business. Her father is available by phone for advice.
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| Aaliyah and Lydia at Dondoor's New Location |
She does promotion bags for conferences, sports events, holiday bags. We were surprised to see brand names we recognize like Pizza Hut. It's all a big challenge.
Marketing is the biggest part of the business.
The handwoven, traditional is still possible to make but the bigger part of her business is the modern
t-shirts, tights, boxers, gym sets along with the promotion bags.
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| Gym sets ready for packaging. |
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| Ladies at Dondoors at work. |
Visit Dondoors factory in this slideshare presentation:
https://www.facebook.com/dondoors/
An interview with Aaliyah re the challenges of setting up a new company in Ethiopia:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoYNyMnUCzw
Aaliyah is a member of one of the many Rotaract Clubs in Addis.
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| Lydia gives Rotaractor Aaliyah a Rotary Pin from Canada. |
One of the projectsof the club that Aaliyah has been involved with is the 'Yenta' school program.
Rotact members sell postcards for sponsorship to supply school materials, uniforms and school fees for children from very low income families. Postcards she says are three types: 1/4 year, 1/2 year, or full year sponsorship. They sell these postcards in supermarkets, malls and restaurants.
They also sponsor a school feeding program. Her Rotaract club meets on Sunday every other week. There are about 30 members. Their web site reflects the enthusiasm that these young professionals bring to Rotaract. They have a 'mother' Rotary club that helps them with money. I am so impressed with the project work and involvements of this club! Here is the link to her Roteracts' web page:
Aaliah talks about her involvement with Rotaract:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toHxHYr1Rn0&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toHxHYr1Rn0&feature=youtu.be
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