Meet Ramli

 

Eight months ago, while relaxing on the beach in Gili Meno, I met Ramli—a kindhearted man selling pearl necklaces. Always one for something unique, I asked if he could make me a custom piece. "No problem," he said. As he worked, we chatted, and I learned that every day, he takes the ferry from Lombok to sell his handmade jewelry—his only source of income to support his family.

By the time my necklace was finished, we had become friends. Before leaving, he told me, "If you’re ever in Lombok, you must visit us." I promised I would.

A few weeks later, back home, I couldn’t stop thinking—I’m a designer. I could help him create a brand... take this global! So, I FaceTimed him. I didn’t want to raise his hopes too soon, but I suggested we design a few necklaces together. During Indonesia’s rainy season, when sales were low, he was beyond grateful for the opportunity.

I sent him special beads with instructions, and he crafted each piece with such care and precision. He sent them back, but by then, I was traveling—so I hadn’t yet seen the final results.

Fast forward to a month ago: I finally made it to Lombok. Visiting Ramli and his family was an experience I’ll never forget. They welcomed me with open arms, shared everything they had, and showered me with kindness—his wife even gifted me her sarong and a bundle of bananas from their tree. When I tried to pay them, they simply said, friendship is more important.

And now, something truly special—because of this first collection, Ramli was able to pay for his son's school tuition. Seeing how this project is already making a difference means everything, and this is just the beginning.

I’m so excited to share a glimpse of our first collection—handmade with love, inspired by this journey, and crafted by Ramli himself. If you’d love to support or have any thoughts, I’d love to hear them! Feel free to reach out.

If you’d like to help Ramli and his family directly, you can also donate through this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/c0bd9a56