Meet Our Founder

Craft that connects us.

Welcome to Global Village Artisans! I’m Ashley, and I’m thrilled to share the story of our family-run social enterprise with you.

 

I grew up surrounded by handcrafted treasures — textiles, toys, woven baskets — each one made slowly, with intention. They shaped my understanding of creativity, connection, and culture. Over time, I realised how fragile these traditions are in a world of fast production and digital overwhelm. I felt called to help protect them, not just as items, but as living stories.

Global Village Artisans is a family-run social enterprise based in Aotearoa New Zealand, created to support and celebrate artisans from Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Africa, and beyond. We work directly with makers who carry generations of skill, ensuring their craft continues to thrive.

My background in Expressive Arts Therapy deeply influences this work. I’ve seen how creativity brings healing , how making something with your hands can restore, reconnect, and rebuild. This belief is woven into every part of our brand: the way we collaborate with artisans, the way we tell their stories, and the way we share handmade pieces that bring warmth, beauty, and meaning into homes.

Our family’s roots span South Africa, Europe, and Thailand — a blend of cultures that inspires how we view the world and shapes our commitment to authenticity, cultural appreciation, and sustainable living.

Every piece we offer is crafted with care, dignity, and respect for tradition. Whether it’s a hand-stitched Sri Lankan toy, a woven textile, or a heritage craft piece, it carries the spirit of its maker and the stories of their community.

Thank you for supporting handcrafts, connection, and global artisanship.
Every purchase is an act of aroha — keeping traditions alive while bringing joy, colour, and culture into your home.

With gratitude,

Ashley