ANKAA Project’s Journey with Emerging World and Unit4’s Act4Good Program
Welcome to ANKAA Project, a vibrant non-profit organization located in the heart of Athens, Greece. ANKAA Project is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a place of diversity and inclusion, a creative space bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds. Founded in 2018, our mission is straightforward yet powerful: to support individuals affected by forced migration and unemployment. We work with refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, and the unemployed, offering opportunities for education, skills development, and meaningful employment. Our services include Greek language and sewing classes at various levels, alongside a unique ethical manufacturing lab where fashion meets conscious manufacturing. To date, we have welcomed over 1,000 students from 70 different countries, participating in over 290 different classes and workshops.
Since 2020, we have been creating job opportunities for experienced workers and ANKAA graduates in our tailoring lab. We’re passionate about using local, upcycled or organic materials, and crafting products that are both fashionable and eco-friendly. We believe in creating products that look good, feel good, and do good, fostering a world where everyone has equitable opportunities for education and employment. Our commitment extends beyond production; we provide a safe and ethical working environment and support local suppliers, designers, and artisans. It’s not just about creating beautiful products; it’s about building a community.
A Match Made In Heaven: Our partnership with Emerging World and Unit4’s Act4Good Program
In January 2023, Emerging World reached out to us to see if ANKAA would be interested in partnering with them to host a group of volunteers as part of Unit4’s Act4Good Anniversary Experience program. It felt like the perfect opportunity. By 2024, we had welcomed our second group of committed volunteers. The collaboration with Emerging World has truly been a match made in heaven!
When the volunteers join us, they immerse themselves in the daily operations of our space in Kypseli, Athens. In our ethical manufacturing lab, the volunteers assist the tailors in cutting fabrics and even take their first steps in sewing, gaining insight into how our sustainable fashion products are made.
They face the daily challenges of the kitchen, working with our trusted partner, Saffron Kitchen Project. Here, they chop vegetables—lots of vegetables—and pack lunches for distribution to partner organizations across Athens. They also work in our small garden, transforming it into a green oasis for students and staff amidst the bustling city.
Beyond the volunteer support in the various activities, we see this program as a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about migration and the people we work with. The volunteers come from across Europe and their knowledge of refugees may only come from what they see on the news. At ANKAA we work with individuals – refugees, asylum seekers, migrants and those seeking employment. We refer to them as students, focusing on their present, their aspirations and their future, rather than their past struggles.
During the volunteers’ time with us, we aim to showcase ANKAA’s approach, which emphasizes recognizing people for their potential and individuality. Our mission is to highlight the importance of shared values and the transformative power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. By focusing on our students’ aspirations and future, we strive to convey a much-needed perspective in today’s world that goes beyond their past traumas.
Looking Forward: Our Vision for the Future
Despite the challenges, we remain steadfast in our belief in a better world. We aim to continue supporting our students as best as we can, working hand-in-hand to build a sustainable and dignified future. In our ethical manufacturing lab, we envision growth—more customers, more orders, and more products. But this growth isn’t just about business; it’s about showcasing the resilience of our students and our belief in a better world.
Our future projects are driven by this vision. We want to expand our services, create more job opportunities, and continue to support local communities. Each creation from ANKAA is more than just another product; it’s a testament to resilience, hope, and the possibility of a brighter future.
Connect with Us!
Stay updated on our journey and support our mission by visiting our website, following us on social media, and contributing to our cause through donations or by purchasing our products. Together, we can make a difference.
Join us in celebrating shared humanity and building a better future for all.
Feel free to visit our building in the middle of Athens and experience firsthand the incredible work being done by our community. Let’s continue to chop those vegetables, sew those fabrics, and plant those gardens—all in the name of shared humanity and a brighter future.
