Memos from the Movement: Once an Ibu, Always an Ibu
Daer Ibu Allies,
My name is Lindsay White, and I’ve had the privilege of serving as Ibu’s marketing intern under chief marketing officer Lasley Steever, as well as contributing to our talented sales team. When I began this internship last fall, I was seeking experience to round out my senior year at the College of Charleston, studying Communication, Marketing, and Studio Art. What I found was so much more: purpose, inspiration, and an incredible community. My heart feels earnestly full, and I am honored to have worked alongside the powerful women of the Ibu team. During my time here, I’ve collected stories from all over the world—each one a testament to Ibu’s global impact. I’ve witnessed tradition, artistry, and the deep-rooted strength of women shaping their futures. And most meaningfully, I’ve seen how Ibu brings people together, elevating women everywhere.
One artisan group that made an impression on me is Seven Sisters, based in Kyrgyzstan. The Kyrgiz sisters create intricate designs on vibrant scarves, tunics, and dresses—fusing the moist, felted wool onto delicate transparent silk. Their skills have been passed down through generations, unfolding totems and spiritual signifiers that are rooted in their nomadic history. I fell in love with these textiles and was overjoyed to give my mom a bright red scarf from Seven Sisters for Christmas. When I wear my own felted vest, I feel the beauty and grace the cloth exudes.
Beyond telling artisan stories and sharing their meaningful history, I helped put on Ibu’s annual International Women’s Day fundraiser. The 2025 Waka Waka events were nothing short of transformative, and drew together a vivid display of the community Ibu has inspired for years—one filled with joy, collaboration, and deep purpose. Hearing from the 2025 global champion, Beatrice Lempaira, as well as other dynamic leaders and artists was profoundly inspiring. Their voices—brimming with courage, vision, and resilience—reminded me that Ibu is far more than a brand. It’s a movement. Seeing connections built by linking strong women with expanded global markets has been one of my favorite parts of my journey with Ibu.
Lindsay with her grandparents at The Waka Waka gala
One of the most unexpected joys of my experience has been watching my family become part of the Ibu world. From a trunk show in Atlanta to The Waka Waka gala, my grandparents have been by my side, cheering on this movement and engaging with its mission. Sharing Ibu with them—and seeing them embrace the spirit of global sisterhood—has been incredibly meaningful.
As I prepare for my own next steps, I carry with me not just the skills I’ve gained, but the stories, relationships, and purpose I’ve found here. I am grateful to all the movers in the Movement—together creating a beacon of beauty, strength, and sisterhood. What I have learned from you all is once an Ibu, always an Ibu and I will cherish this community and movement always.
With Gratitude,
Lindsay White
Ibu Marketing Intern
