Our history
How it started
My name is Maria Manel Bøge. The idea of Manelleh is a dream I have had since I visited my native Sri Lanka back in 1995. I completely fell for the many beautiful handmade things and had two extra suitcases to take home filled with plates and bowls that I still use Today.
In February 2021 - many trips and purchases of handmade things later - 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.
Our founder
Who started it?
I have 20 years of experience in working with strategy, organizational development, communication and sustainability. I have previously been a manager in large international companies (e.g. ISS), a startup, a research center (KVINFO) and an NGO (Save the Children). For a period I was Director of the CSR Foundation, whose purpose was to put CSR and sustainability on the agenda - nationally and globally.
I have a master's degree in communication from Aalborg University (2006), and in 2020 I completed an MBA education at Henley Business School. In 2010 I was named Talent in Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin's Talent100. Since 2019 I have been a board member of GAME, an award-winning international NGO. Finally, today I am part of the jury behind the FINANCE IMPACT Awards.
Quote from our founder
Why Manelleh is different
"Manelleh is a purpose-driven company. The purpose is to make a difference and contribute to more women around the world having proper, meaningful and dignified jobs. I have been working for more than 15 years 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 present way.
Manelleh is the new generation of companies that will show the way for responsible wages and proper working conditions. As a small new business, we do not yet have any legacy or entrenched processes. We have every opportunity to integrate sustainability and social responsibility throughout the supply chain and all our activities. Giving such a promise to its customers and the outside world, it commits, and that responsibility I will do my utmost to live up to. "
Manelleh is a purpose-driven business
Every purchase makes a difference
Every time you buy a product from Manelleh, you contribute to more women having proper, meaningful and dignified jobs. Your purchase helps to make a lasting and positive difference for the women and their families.
