Who We Are: Isabel Ehrich Of Jabulani Creations
Born into a family that lived in Africa for over four decades, Isabel Ehrich created Jabulani Creations as a way to celebrate the people, arts and culture she had come to admire. Jabulani (pronounced Jah-boo-LAH-nee) means happiness or to rejoice in the African Zulu tribal language. She hopes that both clients and collaborators feel this sentiment from within her business. Spoke+Blossom asked her some questions about the Grand Junction-based business and what her collaboration with the artisans means to her.
Photo by One Lady Studio
Spoke+Blossom: Why did you decide to start Jabulani Creations?
Isabel Ehrich: I wanted to provide a platform for authentic and free-trade products that are rooted within African cultures. By providing a means for artisans to make a livable wage, these arts that are mostly passed down generation to generation will continue to be so.
Photo by One Lady Studio
S+B: What has been the most rewarding part of collaborating with these artisans?
IE: Hearing directly from the artisans the positive impact that Jabulani Creations provides to their lives. In October 2021, we were able to visit some of our artisan partners in Rwanda, spend the day with them and have these conversations. To see the cow, the well or the stove that these families were able to purchase thanks to their business with us was truly the greatest gift. It was humbling to learn that these women artisans are typically the sole income for the household.
Photo by Hummingbird Vine Designs
S+B: How do you feel Jabulani Creations’ mission connects with our theme of roots?
IE: Jabulani Creations is rooted in my love and admiration of Africa — its cultures, people and art. Roots create an intricate network and by connecting directly with artisans across Africa, Jabulani Creations is intertwined in a network rich in history, traditions and culture. By providing transparency to our customer base and sharing artisans' stories, we create an environment that allows these customers to be a part of this growing international community.
Originally published in the Fall 2022 issue of Spoke+Blossom.