from
soil to soul

The genesis of LANIMA’s connection to Rwanda began through a serendipitous encounter with Humanity Unified, a New York-based non-profit that empowers vulnerable populations of women around the globe through economic opportunity. Immediately drawn to its powerful mission, LANIMA founder Debbi Symes had a vision to source production of LANIMA’s Conscious Clutch in Rwanda. The 6-month project concluded in a 12-day sojourn to Rwanda, where Debbi finally met and bonded with the artisans who crafted the clutches. Together they celebrated the beauty of self-sustainment and the beginning of a blossoming relationship. Debbi left Rwanda feeling a kindred connection to the women, and a soul-stirring call to continue her work on this land.

humanity unified

Several years since that fateful trip, Debbi has deepened her relationship with Humanity Unified and her commitment to helping elevate women in a post-genocide environment with entrepreneurship skills, training and, crucially, the motivation necessary to not only survive, but to thrive.

As her work commitment has evolved, so have the incredible opportunities for Debbi to use her brand, LANIMA, as a vehicle to tell a bigger story, and to help more people in need.

 food forest

2020 marks a watershed moment for LANIMA. This February, we partnered with Humanity Unified to launch the first LANIMA Food Forest, a demonstration garden and educational platform to teach community members of the Huye District of Rwanda on regenerative agriculture and climate resilience. Beginning with planting 120 biodiverse trees (avocados, moringa, papayas, mangoes, oranges, lemons and apples), and a range of nourishing vegetables and medicinal plants (strawberries, nasturtium, gooseberries, fleabane, ginger bush, clove basil, aloe and tree tomatoes), this project will empower community members through training and education on farming, proper nutrition, and wellness practices (including yoga).

 food for hospitals

It will also provide nourishing organic food to sick mothers and children in the local hospital. (Hospitals in Rwanda do not provide food to patients, so if you are poor and have no one to bring you food, it is possible to starve during recovery) 70% of those employed for the project will be impoverished women who need a source of income.