About the founder
Introducing SONRIZA: Connecting Cultures and Smiles
Hey there! I'm Sofia, the creative force behind SONRIZA. I've always had a passion for diverse cultures, especially the indigenous traditions of my home country, Ecuador. Some of my favorite spots are the bustling handicraft markets like "Plaza Roja" in Riobamba and "Plaza de los Ponchos" in Otavalo. The vibrant colors, exquisite art, and captivating stories never fail to fascinate me. I love seeing the sellers' contagious smiles as they showcase their beautiful handmade creations.
At 17, my curiosity led me to Germany, where I discovered the power of smiles as a universal language. Despite the language barrier, I realized that positive communication can transcend words.
Germany has become my second home, and now I want to share the best of Ecuadorian culture and its amazing people with my brightest smile. Think colorful Andean textiles, llamas and alpacas grazing in the Sierra's foothills, tropical fruits, world-class cocoa, and, of course, the warm smiles that grace every corner. In Germany, I've found a deep appreciation for handmade work, curiosity about other cultures, and a desire for socially and environmentally responsible products.
In 2020, I had the privilege of meeting a group of talented women artisans skilled in embroidery and a fantastic artisanal chocolate shop. Their creations inspired a strategy to export these treasures to the German market. Together, we designed exquisite hand-embroidered T-shirts. During this journey, I encountered the challenges faced by craftswomen in rural Ecuador, where socio-economic problems make it difficult to sell their products. Many abandon their crafts and migrate to cities in search of better opportunities, often without finding the desired improvement in their lives. This heartbreaking reality sparked the idea of creating a store to support these artisans and share their stories through their art.
That's where SONRIZA comes in. The name, which means "smile" in Spanish, encapsulates our belief in the unifying power of smiles. Smiles can transcend language barriers and connect us all. Through our handmade products, we strive to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate the vibrant diversity of our world.
SONRIZA brings together two parallel worlds: Ecuador and Germany. We collaborate closely with talented craftswomen, co-creating unique handmade products using natural fibers that have a minimal environmental impact. By preserving traditional techniques like embroidery, spinning, and weaving, we honor the rich artistry of generations.
But our story wouldn't be complete without you, our valued customers. We know you're not just looking for another fashion item. You understand the importance of creating a positive social and environmental impact through your choices. By supporting SONRIZA, you contribute to our shared mission of making a difference in our planet and society. And in return, we exchange smiles with gratitude.
Most of our products are crafted by women artisans. We share a special connection as women, united by the experience of menstruation. Unfortunately, menstrual poverty remains a taboo subject in many societies, particularly in rural areas. To raise awareness and support women in need, SONRIZA organizes workshops on menstrual health in Ecuador. Your purchase helps us fund these workshops, providing menstrual products, securing expert teachers, transportation, teaching materials, and nourishing meals.
This is how SONRIZA was born, because smiles speak the same language. We hope each product in our store resonates with you. Remember, there's a unique story and a dedicated artisan behind every piece. Please treasure it and care for it, knowing you're supporting their incredible craftsmanship.
Welcome to SONRIZA, where culture, smiles, and positive impact intertwine.
