Ibulliance: A Bridge Across Continents
Dear Ibu Allies,
Growing up, I was always curious about the world around me. During college, I nurtured that curiosity by mentoring international students and forming friendships with peers from Yemen, Egypt, Algeria, and Kazakhstan. I found so much energy and joy in learning about their lives and sharing wisdom, hobbies, and adventures.
I first visited the Ibu showroom with my Business, Leadership, and Society class at the College of Charleston last fall when my professor encouraged us to explore organizations that have a meaningful impact in the community. As soon as Ibu’s chief marketing officer, Lasley Steever, shared Ibu’s mission and focus on storytelling, I knew I had to learn more.
The Business, Leadership, and Society class at the Ibu Showroom; Chloe Goff at work.
A few months after that initial visit, I began interning with Ibu. I divide my time between supporting Ibu’s director of development, Grace Hamilton, through artisan research and donor stewardship, as well as assisting in the showroom alongside our talented sales associates. Joining the Ibu team has shown me the power of art, global connection, and storytelling. I feel so lucky to share the stories of the women artisans and entrepreneurs who make our collection of clothing, jewelry, and decor possible.
As a College of Charleston senior, I’ve been able to focus on what matters most to me: combining my interest in international development with sustainable fashion. I have always been passionate about conscious fashion, but I hadn’t yet understood the intricacy, beauty, and cultural depth that artisans bring to each design in our showroom.
The Waka Waka event celebrating International Women's Day and Ibu's 2025 Global Champion.
This past March, I also had the opportunity to assist with the festivities of Ibu's annual fundraising gala, The Waka Waka. From the decor and fashion to the food and guest list, every detail was thoughtfully executed. Meeting some of the radiant women behind Ibu’s artisan partnerships and hearing their stories brought my sense of awe to life and stayed with me the most. It was a powerful reminder of the creativity and resilience behind each piece, as well as each leader’s commitment to enriching the lives of women in their communities.
From chatting with the founder of Bien Abyé, Dayanne Danier, about new headband designs, to watching BeadWORKS director, Beatrice Lempaira, be honored as our 2025 Ibu Global Champion, I was reminded that even across continents, the world is more connected than we realize.
On the days I work in the showroom, it’s incredible to see guests’ faces light up when they learn the stories behind the pieces. It’s an honor to be part of a small storefront in Charleston that connects customers with a global movement of women-led artistry.
With Gratitude,
Chloe Goff
Ibu Movement Intern
