Our trip to Benin 2025
Part two of our fair jewelry story
In February 2025, it was finally time again: our journey led us back to Benin – to the people who passionately create our handmade, sustainable jewelry. It was a reunion with N'Dah's homeland and another step on our path to fair production and true partnership.
Arrival in Cotonou: Warmth & Hospitality
We landed in Cotonou in the middle of the night. The humid, warm air immediately felt familiar. A friend of N'Dah's mother warmly welcomed us – her house, an oasis of calm amidst the city bustle, became our first anchor point.
By bus to the heart of Benin – Arrival in Nati
Just two days later, we continued our journey inland to Natitingou. The bus ride – an adventure again: honking buses, hawkers, hustle and bustle from all directions. Upon arriving in Natitingou, we started right away: repairing the water pipes, cleaning the apartment from the dust of the dry season – and then diving into creative work.
Fair jewelry production with heart & hand
Our artisans welcomed us with open arms. Together, we developed new designs, established sustainable production standards (e.g., no glue, specific materials), and selected types of leather. Particularly moving: many of the weavers had prepared their own designs – modern and elegant. Their creativity and initiative make ABENIN jewelry so special. And then there was something special from the AGK - really great beach bags!
Encounters, daily life & lived community
In addition to work, there was time for the people we care about: visits to family and friends, meals cooked for us, drinks with N'Dah's dad, discussions about future plans. Two days of relaxation by the pool gave us energy. A highlight: the handover of a complete set of jerseys to a youth team – a moment filled with joy and genuine connection.
(If you would like to donate clothes, towels, or sports equipment: please write to us. We will take them with us next time.)
Back in Cotonou: Commitment and a touch of paradise
Back in Cotonou, we stayed with N'Dah's mother's friend – an impressive woman who is passionately dedicated to social projects: equine therapy for children with disabilities and circus programs for street children living under police supervision. We would like to actively support this authentic social impact work in the future.
Afterward, we traveled on to Abomey-Calavi. The royal palace was unfortunately closed for renovation (until 2027), but a guided tour gave us exciting insights into the city's history. After an unexpected encounter with a less-than-cooperative police officer, we visited an orphanage near Possotomé, supported by friends – another moving moment of this trip.
The grand finale was a night in Grand Popo: white sand, the sound of the ocean, palm trees – a paradisiacal place to enjoy, breathe deeply, and dream.
Back full of ideas – with the heart of Benin in our luggage
With suitcases full of hibiscus blossoms, peanut butter, new inspiration – and countless stories – we returned to Germany. What came of it? Our new collection of hair clips, rings, and bracelets – 100% handmade, sustainable, and full of heart.
And as last year, we can only say:
We look forward to everything that comes!
Your N'Dah & Jasmin
💚 Follow us on Instagram to get exclusive insights into the creation of our new pieces. Our journey lives on in every single piece of jewelry.
On the penultimate day of our time in Natitingou, we celebrated a small party with the AGK students!
