Sabahar is an Ethiopian company that produces uniquely designed, handwoven cotton and silk textiles. Sabahar was founded 20 years ago by Kathy Marshall from Beaver Lodge Alberta. Her passion for preserving and celebrating the rich weaving tradition of Ethiopia combined with her desire to create respectful and ethical work opportunities for marginalized people have laid the foundation for the company. Sabahar’s 3 core values are Sustainability, Innovation, and Caring for each other. They are members of the World Fair Trade Organization. In 2016 Kathy invited Jane Stafford to come to Addis Ababa to trouble shoot production problems the weavers were having. It was a remarkable journey and she returned again in 2019 to set up a design department teaching unfamiliar weave structures to the weavers and exploring the possibilities of the yarns they have available; including all the Eri silk they raise in great abundance. Jane invites you to walk through the studios of Sabahar, to meet the silk rearers, spinners, dyers, weavers and finishers of an amazing organization that now employs over 700 artisans.
Leader: Jane Stafford
Duration:Â 1.5 hours
Level:Â All
Student supplies to bring:Â Â None
Materials Fee:Â None