Can you provide a brief overview of your background and journey? What inspired the creation of your project or venture?
With a unique name like mine, it’s no surprise that I’ve always been drawn to unique, personalized items. For me, the most meaningful pieces are custom-made, which often means handmade. My passion for handmade products has been with me for as long as I can remember. When I had my first child in 2019, I fell in love with her name and wanted to put it on everything in her room. That desire sparked my journey to discover and connect with local handmade artists.
Fast forward to 2020, when the pandemic made me question: is supporting local just a trend, or can it become a lasting norm? I became determined to make the latter a reality. In 2021, I launched the Instagram account @handmade.in.cyprus purely to support and promote local artists with no strategy in mind.
As I dug deeper, I noticed how the global rise of sustainability movements, like “shop small” and “slow fashion,” resonated with my mission. These trends challenge mass production and fast fashion, but I believe that “shop handmade” bridges these values, providing a truly sustainable and unique alternative
If you consider the first day you walked into The Base by CyprusInno and participated in both the AWE and UNDP YIF programmes, what has changed for you and Handmade in Cyprus?
The biggest transformation is that Handmade in Cyprus evolved from a simple idea into an established business—all within a year. This wouldn’t have been possible without the validation, education, and support I received from the AWE and UNDP YIF programmes.
When I first walked into The Base by CyprusInno, I honestly wasn’t sure if my idea had any real value. I didn’t think of myself as a “businessperson” at all. But through the mentorship and resources provided by these programmes, I gained not only the confidence to move forward but also the clarity that this idea was worth pursuing—and that I was the right person to bring it to life.
How do you engage with and involve the community at Handmade in Cyprus?
Everything about Handmade in Cyprus is rooted in community. The initial decision to start the Instagram page in 2021 was the only step I took alone. Since then, the community’s feedback, inspiration, and encouragement have shaped every aspect of this journey.
I actively engage with the community on social media, but the most meaningful connections happen at our pop-up markets. These events are at the heart of what Handmade in Cyprus stands for. There’s nothing more fulfilling than bringing people together, seeing them connect, and supporting a shared positive movement.
How do you encourage sustainable practices among the artists featured on Handmade in Cyprus?
Interestingly, I’ve found that most of the artists in our community already prioritize sustainability—it’s part of their ethos, and that was a pleasant surprise when I entered this space.
“Follows sustainable practices” is one of the criteria I use when selecting artists for both our marketplace and pop-up markets.
How are you thinking about incorporating technology to help power Handmade in Cyprus?
I have recently partnered with a CTO who is perfect for the role and she not only has the skills and knowledge, but also happens to be a part of the handmade community. I am confident that together we will be able to advance and scale Handmade in Cyprus as planned.
We have many ideas such as enhancing the customer experience, especially with custom orders, by using 3D modelling and/or Virtual Reality. As well as using AI to streamline listing products and marketing for artists, as those are their main pain points.
Follow Handmade in Cyprus’s Journey!
Stay updated on Handmade in Cyprus’s progress and exciting developments by visiting their website and connecting with them on social media:
- Website: handmadein.cy
- Instagram: handmade.in.cyprus
- LinkedIn: Handmade in
- Facebook: Handmade In Cyprus
Get in Touch:
For inquiries, reach out at:
- Email: handmadeincy@gmail.com
We hope you enjoyed reading the Alumni Spotlight Series blog and feel inspired by the journeys of our alumni! Stay tuned for our next series, and see you soon!
