Ecodunia is a social enterprise dedicated to creating dignified work opportunities and breaking the cycle of poverty, while making high-quality, Fairtrade products that honor both the producers and the earth. We foster sustainable opportunities for skill development and capacity-building - and then provide the opportunities to utilize those skills. Like Trevor Noah insightfully noted, teaching someone to fish is essential, but without a fishing rod, the lesson is insufficient. We hone the skills, provide the space to use them effectively, and create a market for the goods.

Ecodunia is not just a business; it's a manifestation of a belief in a sustainable and inclusive economy.  Every product tells a story of local craftsmanship and our commitment to fair-trade practices.

Cera grew up on a small subsistence farm in Kenya. At the age of nine, her grandmother’s home and farm were burned down during a civil war. With their home gone, her family moved to a Nairobi s, where her mom traveled two hours each way to work - and still didn’t have enough to make ends meet. Cera didn’t need to spend two years in the Peace Corps to know just how hard life is for the people who have been left behind by the global economy. So, when she got the opportunity to study international development and entrepreneurship at UCLA, she did it with a clear goal in mind: to return to create dignified work opportunities in Kenya. She knew that her community doesn’t need charity - they need opportunity. 

In 2019, Ecodunia began with months of developing relationships with cotton farmers, weavers, leather tanners, and craftspeople. We insist on ethical, fairtrade practices for our employees as well as everyone along our supply chain. Cera designed bags and wallets, trained tailors and leather workers, and slowly, the first Ecodunia products were made. Two years later, she built a workshop in Nairobi’s Eastlands - right where the jobs are needed! Nobody who works for Ecodunia needs to travel more than 20 minutes to work. The workshop has lots of natural light, a beautiful garden in front, and two meals served up daily.

Dunia is the Swahili word for the World. The name Ecodunia reflects our commitment to the planet and the people. We believe that fair-trade is not just about paying fair prices, but about guaranteeing income. We provide benefits that we believe all people should be entitled to: livable salaries (as opposed to wages), paid time off, paid sick leave, and two meals each day. We are committed to the people and the planet - fair trade top to bottom!