The -able gives people forced to flee and those living in conflict zones the opportunity to earn a dignified income through their skills and traditional craftsmanship. Founded by Kirstine after working with displaced communities in Greece and Lebanon, The -able was created as a response to the imbalance in how support is often offered – focusing instead on people’s existing talents, cultural heritage, and dreams of earning their own income.
Some of the products from The -able
By collaborating directly with artisans from or currently living in Syria, Lebanon, South Sudan, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Kenya, Myanmar, and DR Congo, The -able ensures that profits go straight into the hands of the people behind the products.
Preserving craftsmanship is at the heart of everything we do. In conflict zones, craft is often one of the first things to disappear – yet it holds deep cultural meaning, a sense of identity, and offers a path to economic independence.
Some of the work includes:
Handwoven towels from Samer and his family in Syria
Aghabani embroidery by Mouna and Hala in Lebanon
Recycled plastic designs by Sasha in Kyiv
Tatreez embroidery by Palestinian women in the Shatila refugee camp
The -able sells directly through its webshop and works with companies looking for meaningful gifts – for employees, clients or partners – that come with stories, purpose, and a powerful message of solidarity.
Materials are reused, repurposed, or organic wherever possible, and profits are reinvested in the artisans' futures through access to training, tools, and stable work.
Every product tells a story – of culture, resilience, and a new way of building connection across borders.
Shadi in his printshop
The name The -able is a direct response to how people forced to flee are so often reduced to “the refugee” – as if that label alone defines them. The * in the logo points to what’s missing: the whole person behind the word. People who are capable, admirable, knowledgeable, remarkable – and so much more.