When in retail stores or malls in the US, you may stumble upon hidden treasures – handcrafted planters, storage and organization pieces, and fashion accessories by a brand called LIKHÂ. The US-based but 100 percent Filipino brand stands out as a lifestyle name fostering joyful connectedness through modern, thoughtfully handcrafted goods.
The goods are made with natural and eco-friendly materials by Filipino artisans based in the Philippines. LIKHÂ may even be familiar to our kababayans abroad as it has been featured in international media platforms like The Oprah Magazine, Martha Stewart website, Reader’s Digest, Tatler, Forbes, and more.
Partnering with Filipino craftsmen, LIKHÂ, which literally means create or make in the vernacular, celebrates traditional techniques with a touch of modern simplicity. The brand’s commitment goes beyond providing livelihoods; it aims to uplift artisans, instilling confidence, self-worth, and upholding their dignity. It empowers artisan families to overcome poverty and let their products reach a global market.
In a significant achievement recently, LIKHÂ proudly announces its NEST Seal Certification and membership in the Fair Trade Federation (FTF) in the United States. These milestones solidify LIKHÂ’s role as a trailblazer in the Filipino handmade industry, emphasizing ethical standards, sustainable practices, and empowerment of local artisan communities.
The NEST Seal Certification, an industry-standard accreditation, signifies LIKHÂ’s unwavering dedication to responsible business practices and positive community impact. By achieving this certification, LIKHÂ showcases its commitment to ethical standards that align with global best practices.
Likewise, joining the Fair Trade Federation enhances LIKHÂ’s connection to a community deeply committed to fair trade principles. As a member, the brand collaborates with like-minded entities, contributing to the pursuit of a more just and sustainable world.
Nathalie Llorente-Lim, founder and CEO of LIKHÂ, shared her enthusiasm about these achievements, stating, “Our team is ecstatic about the possibilities ahead and can’t wait to bring Filipino artisan products to an even broader audience and raise the profile of the Philippines as a global leader in sustainability, design, and innovation within the handmade industry.”
With the Nest Seal and FTF logo prominently displayed on LIKHÂ’s website, consumers can easily identify and support products adhering to the highest ethical standards. These certifications provide transparency and assurance, empowering shoppers to make informed choices aligned with their values.
Llorente-Lim added, “We believe that this will not only benefit our brand and our artisans but also contribute to the broader narrative of ethical and sustainable practices in the handmade industry. It’s a step towards a more conscious and responsible approach to consumerism.”
Having Llorente-Lim as a dear friend and university roommate adds a personal touch to this story, emphasizing the passion and dedication behind LIKHÂ which she has embodied for years. She reflects the genuine excitement and commitment to promoting Filipino craftsmanship globally and elevating the lives in local communities through fair labor and employment practices.
As LIKHÂ continues its journey, the Nest Seal and FTF mark serve as symbols of trust and authenticity. Certified as an ethical brand, LIKHÂ invites consumers to explore and support a diverse range of Filipino artisan products that embody the intersection of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Each LIKHÂ item carries with it the pride I wish every Filipino would have. It is extra special as fellow Filipinos made it with care and love.
For more information about LIKHA and its commitment to responsible and sustainable craftsmanship, visit www.shoplikha.com or contact hello@shoplikha.com. As we celebrate the success of LIKHA, let us recognize the impact of ethical choices in supporting local communities and promoting a more conscious approach to consumerism.
For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.
