With the onset of modernisation and scaling up of manufacturing comes the inevitable loss of small-scale traditional methods of production, a phenomenon affecting millions of artisans worldwide. Not only does it mean that traditional knowledge is forgotten but it severely impacts upon the livelihoods of these small-scale producers and their families.

Lemlem, which means to flourish or bloom in Amharic, was started in 2007 when model Liya Kebede discovered that due to a decline in local demand for their goods traditional weavers in her native country of Ethiopia were losing their jobs. Recognizing the beauty, quality and historic significance of their work, Liya wanted to preserve the art of weaving and inspire economic independence amongst the weavers.

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