Gilbert Gadede makes our lovely handwoven shakers from his workshop in Ghana. Gilbert, or 'Lofa' as he is known to his friends, studied Freight Forwarding in order to follow a career in shipping. However, he decided to help his brother with his handicraft business and soon decided this is what he wanted to do. He started producing beaded jewellery and decorating local musical instruments. He then developed an interest in making a range of musical instruments using different materials.
Lofa with his family & team
Lofa is very conscious of the environment and makes use of materials from renewable resources as well as recycled materials like seeds from trees, cane, raffia, recycled cans, and corks. He is married with 2 children and his business is his main source of income to support his family and see his children through education. He currently has 2 permanent members of staff and during his peak season, he hires up to 10 temporary staff.
Bee and Lofa in 2021
Shop Lofa's shakers here.
