How It Started
Our Story
My name is Maria Manel Bøge.
The idea behind Manelleh is a dream Ive had since I visited my native country, Sri Lanka, back in 1995. I completely fell in love with the many beautiful handmade items and brought home two extra suitcases full of plates and bowls that I still use today.
In February 2021 - after many trips and purchases of handmade items - the concept of Manelleh finally became a reality by combining my experience from "the corporate world" with my knowledge and interest in CSR, gender equality and sustainability.
Who started it?
Our founder
I have 20 years of experience working with strategy, organisational development, communication and sustainability.
I have previously been a manager in large international companies (e.g., ISS), a startup, a research centre (KVINFO) and an NGO (Red Barnet). For a period I served as Director of CSR Fonden, whose purpose was to put CSR and sustainability on the agenda — nationally and globally.
I hold a master's degree in communication from Aalborg Universitet (2006), and in 2020 I completed an MBA at Henley Business School. In 2010 I was named a Talent in Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin's Talent100.
I am currently a member of the jury for the FINANS IMPACT Awards.
Why Manelleh is different
Quote from our founder
"Manelleh is a purpose-driven company. Our purpose is to make a difference and help ensure that more women around the world have decent, meaningful and dignified jobs. For more than 20 years I have worked to create large-scale impact in large companies and organizations. With Manelleh, I want to make a difference on a smaller scale and in a more personal and hands-on way.
Manelleh is the new generation of companies that will lead the way for fair wages and decent working conditions. As a small, new company we do not yet have any legacy or entrenched processes. We have every opportunity to integrate sustainability and social responsibility across the entire supply chain and in all our activities. Making such a promise to customers and the wider world is a commitment, and I will do my utmost to live up to that responsibility."
Every purchase makes a difference
Manelleh is a purpose-driven company
Every time you buy a product from Manelleh, you help create decent, meaningful, and dignified jobs for more women. Your purchase helps make a lasting, positive difference for the women and their families.