Alaffia Named Employer of the Year by Thurston County EDC
For 30 years the annual Business Recognition Awards event has honored local businesses non-profit organizations and the significant role that they play in creating a healthy and diverse economy throughout Thurston county.
Olympia, WA, April 14, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Alaffia, a fair trade beauty organization working to empower communities, has been awarded the prestigious Thurston County Large Business Employer of the Year Award. Alaffia is a recognized leader in the beauty industry, due to its sourcing of ingredients, fair trade practices, and community empowerment projects in the areas of maternal health, reforestation, and education. As a testament to its belief in empowering communities worldwide, Alaffia was named the top employer by the Thurston County Economic Development Council for 2015.
Co-founders Rose Hyde and Olowo-n’djo Tchala met in Tchala’s hometown of Kaboli, Togo while Hyde served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Togo. The two moved to the United States and founded Alaffia in 2004. The raw ingredients contained in Alaffia’s body care products are handcrafted using traditional methods at their fair trade cooperatives in West Africa. Alaffia employs over 500 women, making it the second-largest employer in Togo, after the government.
"Alaffia will always be the child of two communities, two cultures. We will continue to strive to empower individuals to bring peace and equality to both communities we call home."
Olowo-n'djo Tchala, Co-Founder of Alaffia
Alaffia currently employs more than 70 full-time employees in the Olympia-Tumwater area and ensures each receives full medical benefits and an above average industry wage. The organization also works to create a family environment through company engagements, a vibrant atmosphere, and a connection to what each employee is contributing to communities both here and in West Africa.
In addition to the unique workplace environment, Alaffia is also active in the local community. Alaffia donates products to local charities, engages in volunteer projects, supports local businesses, conducts educational speaking engagements in the local community and offers internship opportunities.
“Alaffia will always be the child of two communities, two cultures. We will continue to strive to empower individuals to bring peace and equality to both communities we call home,” said Olowo-n’djo Tchala, co-founder of Alaffia.
For more information about Alaffia visit our website.