Indego Africa at the NYIGF

A couple of weeks ago, from Jan. 31 - Feb. 2, Indego Africa had the opportunity to exhibit at the New York International Gift Fair at the Jacob K. Javits Center. The fair draws over 2,500 exhibitors and 31,000 buyers from 50 states and 85 countries. This was Indego Africa's first gift fair, but we still managed to construct a great booth that included interesting product displays plus videos and photos of our artisan partners in Rwanda.

Matt Mitro and his apron tend the Indego Africa booth.

I was impressed with the sheer number of booths represented at the fair (filling four floors of Javits) and the incredible variety of unique and innovative products offered, from telephone wire tableware to Mexican bronze artwork. Our booth was located in the Handmade Division, so many of our neighbors were also proud members of the the Fair Trade Federation, an added bonus. The most popular products: our plateau baskets and wine coasters.

By the end of the week we had not only received a variety of fantastic orders from retailers across the country, but we also made some great new friends. A huge thank you to Nimet of Tokoloshe for allowing us to partner with her for the event and for lending invaluable support. A special mention also to our booth neighbor Bob Bendik from the Spiral Foundation for his wise advice and camaraderie.

We had a great time and definitely look forward to continuing the momentum at the August fair!

- Manica Piputbundit, Sales & Marketing Intern