Aiayu has collaborated with Anna and Ditte, two master students from Copenhagen University to research new materials and communities. The research led the two girls to Amman, Jordan where they have met a community of artisans and possible products to begin a relationship with.
Read more about their journey and findings. Also, enjoy their travel guide on must do’s in Greater Amman. Thank you Anna and Ditte for your knowledge and curiosity!
Tell us about yourself and the project
We are Anna and Ditte – two masters students studying Global Development from Copenhagen University. We are currently in Amman, Jordan conducting research for our masters’ thesis on how the private sector can play a role in creating sustainable development around the world in collaboration with Aiayu. We approached Aiayu because we were interested in their commitment to supporting indigenous materials, crafts, and communities in a socially and environmentally sustainable manner.
After discussing possibilities Aiayu gave us the opportunity to help them discover a new community of artisans and a possible product. As Global Development students, it is within our expertise to help evaluate which communities could most benefit from combining their craftsmanship with Aiayu’s investment and international platform.
What led you to Jordan?
From our previous work and study experiences, we have learned the great impact migration and displacement has on the world we see today. This interest led us to Jordan, which has a long history of hosting refugees from neighboring countries. Over time, this has led to an incredibly diverse culture and rich tradition of craftsmanship.
Since the recent influx of Syrian refugees, Jordan proportionally hosts one of the largest refugee populations worldwide. Given a lack of international support, this steep rise in population has put a strain on the Jordanian economy, infrastructure, and social services.
Job creation and economic investment are critical components to creating healthy communities for Jordan and its people. Because of this, we are here in Amman searching for products and people Aiayu could begin a relationship with.
Can you elaborate on the project and your findings?
We have decided to focus on refugees who are single mothers, as their economic opportunities are often more limited yet we have been struck by their impressive skill sets and entrepreneurial drive.
We have been interviewing these women to understand how they make a living and overcome the many obstacles they encounter. Being primary caregivers of their families many struggle with working full time, and face numerous constraints and uncertainty. We’ve seen them create natural olive-oil soaps, highly detailed embroidery, beautiful ceramics, and intricate handwoven wool rugs. We see many possibilities to combine these beautiful techniques and materials with Aiayu’s design to create products customers around the world will love.
Anna and Ditte’s travel tips and must do’s to Amman
Where to eat?
What to take home?
What to see?