Memos from the Movement: A Note from Christy Durbin

The RaRa fundraiser, in 2021, was my introduction to Ibu. It was a beautiful setting on Wadmalaw island in October, with a chill in the air. It was a beautiful setting on Wadmalaw Island in October, with a chill in the air. The people were so warm and inviting, and there was an energy that you must experience to understand. My husband and I joined at the invitation of our friends, Sandra and Brent Smith, to learn more about a small team in Charleston working globally. That night, Susan Hull Walker outlined Ibu’s work, highlighting several grants of immediate need. I was struck by how far the donation dollars would go. The value proposition was compelling: invest in women and their artisanal skills, and create a ripple effect. The women themselves, their families, and their communities all benefit. Ibu builds infrastructure for skilled women in overlooked places by providing funds for training, materials, and workspaces, while offering a marketplace for their goods. As a result, the women achieve increased financial stability through the art of their hands. What a no brainer.

Dayanne Danier, the founder of a social enterprise in Haiti, spoke so eloquently about the women in her organization, her specific needs, and Ibu’s importance as a partner. I was impressed by the approachability, achievability, and impact of these grants as a result of Ibu’s existing relationships and structure within these artisan alliances.

Over the past couple years, I’ve attended events, engaging as a donor to support Ibu’s important work. I listened to Rangina Hamidi speak about the opportunities and challenges for women in Afghanistan. At an intimate dinner with Colombian artisans, I learned that black is the color of hope. Who knew? I’ve met donors who have supported Ibu since the beginning and new donors just getting involved… all with the same goal of connecting with and elevating women around the world. In these moments, I’m continually inspired and appreciative—the world becomes more intimate and integrated as I learn the names and faces of others aligned with Ibu’s mission. Today, I serve on the board alongside Susan, Sandra, Dayanne, and several other women leaders bringing impressive perspectives and skills. I could not have imagined this powerful movement when stepping into The RaRa.

Clockwise from top left: Ibu Board Members Dayanne Danier, Sandra Smith, Christy Durbin, Jacquelyn Mayfield, Amanda Flynn at The Waka Waka; Colombiana! artisans, 2023; Rangina Hamidi with Susan Hull Walker, 2022; The Fringe Revolution Global Champions, 2023

Today, Ibu is at an inflection point in its journey. Its scope extends to over 100 social enterprises crafting high-quality handmade goods, and showcasing generations of skill in women’s hands. These women, our partners, have told us what they need most is to sell more. As such, Ibu’s strategy is focused on making significant investments in our online marketplace and digital marketing, so that we may broaden the audience even further. There is great opportunity as we execute this plan, and this energizes me as my career has been at the intersection of technology and marketing. Each sale casts a vote of confidence for these women, and is critical for a self-sustaining model towards financial independence. 

I am continually humbled by those I meet through Ibu. Each of us has something to offer—contributing specific skills and ideas, spreading the word to friends and allies, or supporting these women through donations and shopping. Each of us has the potential to make a difference. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you if you are interested in learning more about our work and how you may fit into this movement we call Ibu.

With Gratitude,
Christy Durbin
Ibu Board Member