Ibulliance: Hope and Renewal in 2025

Dear Ibu friends,

The New Year is absolutely one of my favorite times of the year! Growing up in Brazil, we embrace the tradition of dressing all in white for New Year’s Eve, symbolizing hope and renewal. I love to then go to the beach, and at midnight, jump over seven waves making a wish for each jump for the year ahead—an expression of optimism, marking the promise of new beginnings and all the possibilities that lay ahead.

As we step into the new year, we reflect on the remarkable journey of transformation and resilience that defines the Ibu Movement. Together, we’ve empowered over 200 artisan groups across 50 countries, promoting financial independence while preserving cultural heritage and textile traditions through the art of their hands. We celebrate not only the beauty of their craft but also the courage they embody—courage to rise above challenges, to create, and to inspire us all.

Samina Mahmud of SheWorks; Jennet Garlyyeva of Unique Camel Wool; Dayanne Danier of Bien Abyé.

This past year, I was particularly thrilled to see the success of Samina Mahmud, founder of SheWorks in Pakistan, who despite the challenging political landscape, opened a brick and mortar store and more than doubled the number of women supported. I was also delighted to make a new connection via our Fringe Road travel with Jennet Garlyyeva in Turkmenistan, who is dedicated to revitalizing the ancient technique of camel hair weaving despite many resource challenges, even as basic as internet access. And I maintain hope for the women of Bien Abyé in Haiti, who still come together to bead and sew in the face of political unrest and gang violence, supported by their tenacious founder Dayanne Danier. 

I am profoundly inspired by these women, and the hundreds of others who share their skillful craft and unflappable determination with Ibu. They motivate me to say yes to opportunities, to say no to limits, and to push the Movement to new heights. Let their stories remind us that change begins with a dream and becomes reality with collective support. I wholeheartedly invite you to join us on this exhilarating journey, and can’t wait for what 2025 will bring!

With great excitement,
Beth Lin
Chief Executive Officer