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our Story
Kabisa is a start-up business that has steadily evolved and we are now ready to flourish!
Operating as a social impact business, our profits contribute to improving food and water security for small-scale subsistence farming communities in South-Eastern Kenya by alleviating economic pressures faced by the environmental consequences of climate change.
Kabisa was initially conceptualised to create a bridge for East African artisans to sell their crafts to a wider market and has organically developed into generating self employment opportunities for young women from rural Kenya and Tanzania.
Born out of her love for the magnificent African continent, Kabisa's founder, Vics, has lived and worked in Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar since 2008, initially leading youth expeditions. Over the years, alongside native colleagues and local stakeholders, she has worked on and managed a variety of social and environmental impact projects focusing on: sustainable livelihoods, improving education, accessing healthcare and health education, environmental conservation and human-wildlife conflict resolution.
Whilst leading expeditions back in 2008, Vics worked alongside Rosie who was integral to conceptualising many of the projects they carried out. Always with a beaming smile and profound wisdom beyond her years, together they have built a deep and resilient friendship where trust and laughter are at the forefront. Their values, vision and entrepreneurial spirit align in unison and are the fundamental strength that form the essence on which Kabisa is built upon.
It was through their relationship that Rosie explained about the huge challenges for farming families, such as hers, who live in the migration corridor of Kenya’s Tsavo East and West National Parks. Whilst working in this rural environment which is prone to drought, Vics also worked with an inspirational woman, respectfully known as Mama Mercy. A community leader and staunch supporter of Women’s rights, over the years, they have developed a strong bond which inspired the beginnings of Kabisa.
Now living and working in Zanzibar, Vics met another incredible woman who has become a great friend. Aida is a natural connector and creative entrepreneur, together they have spent hours learning from each other. These initial discussions greatly impacted Kabisa’s foundations and principles. Aida is always on hand for wise advice and has been wonderfully encouraging over the years.
‘Ka-bee-sah’ is a term of acknowledgement, frequently used in KiSwahili, the national language of Kenya and Tanzania, as a way of expressing complete agreement. Direct translations of ‘Kabisa’ are: completely, absolutely or wholeheartedly. Mama Mercy, Aida, Rosie and Vics wholeheartedly believe that Kabisa has the potential to dramatically improve the standards of living for our team and their families. Ultimately, by increasing our community of loyal customers, we can enable life changing opportunities for next generation, the children of our team.
