Oh friends, I am so excited to be sharing today’s #bisforbonnieloves feature with y’all! I have admired the Sskeo Designs business model (and not-so-secretly crushed on their products) for years now, and it’s such a delight to be sharing their work here on my little corner of the internet. Most well-known for their beautiful handmade sandals with interchangeable laces, the Sseko team has most recently expanded into a collection of feminine and breathtaking footwear that transition seamlessly from the office to date night. Their suede and leather ballet flats are handmade at their headquarters in Uganda, where Sseko employs women who are working their way to university, as well as women from all walks of life to empower them and provide a sustainable work environment.
What originally started as a journalistic trip back in 2002 for founder Liz Forkin Bohannon quickly turned into a sandal company with a desire to empower women in the Ugandan community through a safe work environment, access to continued higher education, and fair wages. There are several tracks of employment at Sseko, from the university-bound plan where women are actively working their way to attend college and each purchase made furthers that goal, to the full-time veterans from all walks of life. I have such respect for this team of Sseko staff, employees and talented artisans who have taken something as seemingly simple as crafting beautiful shoes and accessories, and turned it into an opportunity to better a local community and empower women to live out their dreams.
And all that started because of a shoe. I’m honored to add these beautiful fuchsia flats to my closet, and know their eye-catching color and design will enable me to share the Sseko story wherever I go. And how affirming is it to invest in a product that is thoughtfully made and stands for something bigger than itself?
Let me tell you that these flats are every bit as comfortable as they look! They’re even more vibrant in person, and I know they’ll be in constant rotation this summer. The suede is soft as can be and the interior soles are buttery soft leather. For as much as I love Sskeo sandals, I was delighted when I heard they were releasing this collection, as I can see this style working beautifully for the office, weddings and especially date nights with your favorites. If you’re not familiar with the Sseko product line, you have to peruse their beautiful totes, strappy sandals and more! Remember that every purchase makes a difference, and your feet will thank you for the investment.
But you don’t have to be a customer to get involved in the Sseko story! You can keep up with the Sseko women through their blog and even on Instagram. Sseko Designs does a great job of sharing each artisan’s story with readers, and you are able to get a true glimpse into the community that’s blossomed within their Ugandan headquarters. Won’t you join me as I follow along with this great company? I know you’ll just adore them.
I love Sseko and found your blog through a “Sseko suede” search. Do you still have these ballet flats!? 🙂