K Design:
We have met several ‘wise old (not old) owls’ who have been
in business for a number of years and have learned much from their vast
experience. Rahel Zewde, the vibrant
owner of K-Design takes pride in her family-owned business established by her
mother Kidist (hence the name K-Design) who began as a dressmaker.
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| Rahel Zewde, Owner of K-Design |
It was in the first of her three shops that I
saw Ethiopian cotton and rayon for the first time. I could not believe the superior quality of
the fabric. Rayon looks like silk. Such beauty!
K-Designs employs 50 weavers.
Rahel aims to give them something to do every week. Many are illiterate but use a phone. Phones work without electricity. Electricity is a big problem. K-Design prides itself in providing
employment to so many, giving them a stable income. Rahel is a true business woman. I was impressed to see her price list and the
incredible quality of her products. Her three outlet stores are strategically
located, each targeting a different market. The duty free shop at the airport
carries only one brand of scarves, K-Design.
Just to add a little story to show Rahel’s underlying compassion and
probably one of her motivating reasons for employing 50 weavers, we were
travelling from one of her stores to a second.
The car was stopped in traffic and a beggar came to her window. She quietly took from her stash of coins and
placed it in his hand. I only wish we
could do this but we have to behave ourselves and help by working with those
who can really help in the positive way of giving employment. The slides will
bring K-Design to life.
Three Designers,
Three Locations, Three Stories:
TG Designer has her store and production area on the second
floor of a mall.
Maedot Tibet has her tiny store on a street
with good walk by traffic.
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| Buley explaining the hand embroidered design to VA Allan with Maedot behind the counter of her store. |
Helina Daniel’s family business is on the
outskirts of Abbis.
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| Helina on the left. Beluy second from the right. |
Helina’s son Beluy
joined us for two of the visits. His contribution as a family member was
invaluable, not only for his humor and excellent English but his knowledge of
the business. As well, he came to each
of our workshops often helping with the technical side. Have a
look to see how each business has its own vibrancy in distinctly different
settings.
Maedot Tibet has her tiny store on a street
with good walk by traffic. 
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