February 18, 2019 - Dubai, UAE

TILLTALANDE, a collection of precious, hand-crafted textiles made in collaboration with Jordan River Foundation and women artisans; Jordanian locals alongside refugees. The initiative is sprung from the urgent need to get people into work and into society - now and in the future. Each product in TILLTALANDE is a unique accessory in its own right, a gem that will look great in every home whatever its expression.

How many tassels does it take to change the world?
One tassel at the time – that’s how IKEA believes in making a difference. The tassels used in TILLTALANDE collection change the lives of hundreds of people in Jordan. They are all handmade by women artisans; Jordanian locals alongside refugees and are a vital ingredient in an initiative to empower women in the region and to integrate them into work and society.

As a response to the refugee crisis IKEA decided to try to make a difference the way we know best – by creating livelihoods. The collection allows IKEA to tap into the artisans unique handicraft skills, and to create jobs, while still ensuring a production that’s efficient enough to result in affordable products. The decision to team up with the non-profit organization Jordan River Foundation was a quick response to the Syrian refugee crisis, with more than 5 million people fleeing the country, many to neighbouring Jordan. The flying start doesn’t stop it from being a long-term business engagement. Today more than 100 artisans are part of the initiative, a number that will double during next year and that is expected to reach 400 by the end of 2020.

The Jordan River Foundation (JRF) is a Jordanian non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1995 and chaired by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah. JRF has initiated numerous socio-economic projects for women, youth and children. Many of these projects work towards enhancing women’s knowledge and skills in the production of traditional handicrafts, and in entrepreneurial skills.