Suleiman Shifaw

Suleiman is a creative social entrepreneur from Ethiopia who is passionate about using traditional bookmaking to make a positive social impact. As the founder of Felek Notebooks and the Design for Decent Work project, and a 2016 Acumen East African Fellow, Suleiman is tackling the lack of access to quality education and employment opportunities in rural Ethiopia. Through Felek Notebooks, Suleiman and his team are providing educational resources and training programs to marginalized communities, and creating job opportunities through the production and export of their products. Their work has led to an increase in school enrollment and academic performance in rural areas, and has also created employment opportunities for marginalized individuals, particularly women. Suleiman's commitment to preserving Ethiopian cultural heritage is also evident in his products, which showcase the unique craftsmanship of Ethiopian bookmaking and design. His ultimate goal is to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for Ethiopia and beyond.

I am passionate about creating products that not only look beautiful, but also have a meaningful social impact.

I strongly believe that design and business, when harnessed in the right way, have the potential to solve the world's greatest problems and create a more equitable world for all.

Many people may not know that I am also a very skilled painter. My passion for traditional bookmaking and design began with my childhood love for drawing and painting.