Building Bridges Through Fair Trade: Zellipah’s Interview on Global Trade

We are so proud to share that our founder, Zellipah, was recently featured in a televised interview highlighting how fast-growing African nations are becoming increasingly important trade partners for the St. Louis region. 🌍✨

In the interview, Zellipah discussed her journey as a woman entrepreneur building bridges between artisan communities in Africa and businesses here in the United States. What started as a personal mission to uplift artisans has grown into a thriving business that connects cultures, creates sustainable livelihoods, and brings meaningful fair trade products to market.

This recognition shines a light on the artisans who inspire everything we do at Gitzell Fair Trade. From basket weavers in Kenya to soapstone carvers and textile artists, their work is now part of a bigger conversation about global trade, ethical sourcing, and economic empowerment.

The interview also emphasizes how women-led businesses are reshaping supply chains by prioritizing people and planet alongside profit. For Zellipah, it’s not just about selling products, it’s about building a community of fair trade champions who believe in meaningful commerce.

What You’ll Learn in the Interview

📺 The role of African nations in shaping the future of trade
💼 Zellipah’s journey as a woman entrepreneur and fair trade leader
🌿 How ethical sourcing strengthens both local and global economies
💡 Why artisan partnerships matter for retailers and consumers alike

For Retailers: Why This Is Important for Your Store

As fair trade continues to gain visibility in mainstream conversations, customers are increasingly drawn to products with authentic stories and global impact. Featuring artisan-made, fair trade goods in your store isn’t just about stocking beautiful items, it’s about offering products that connect shoppers to a movement of sustainability, empowerment, and culture.

By carrying Gitzell Fair Trade products, you give your customers:

• Unique, handcrafted items they can’t find anywhere else
  
  

• A story they can share with friends and family during the holidays
  
  

• The opportunity to support women artisans and sustainable trade practices
  
  

Now is the perfect time to stock fair trade products that not only look good on shelves but also do good in the world. 🌍💜

None of this would be possible without the support of our retail partners, over 1,200 stores across the U.S. who believe in fair trade and choose to carry artisan-made products. Your partnership helps us expand our impact and create sustainable livelihoods for artisans worldwide. 💜

Watch the Full Interview

We invite you to watch Zellipah’s full interview and see how her story—and the stories of our artisan partners—are helping to shape the future of responsible trade.

👉 Watch the Interview Here