AOW Handmade: An Interview with Leslie Mittelberg

This week, I am delighted to feature Leslie Mittelberg of Swahili Imports, who has over 28 years of experience in the artisan field. She was kind enough to share insights, lessons learned, and tips for importing as well as working directly with artisan producers.  Though she successfully sold the business earlier this year, during her tenure her team of 22 was working with up to 45 artisan partners in 15 countries throughout Africa. Products ranged across a variety of categories, including garden art, interior décor, textiles, jewelry, kitchen tools, and personal accessories.