Soli is a Senegalese entrepreneur and the founder of Expedition Subsahara, a business that celebrates African craftsmanship and culture. Born into the Wolof tribe, Soli was raised in a community where basket weaving is passed down from generation to generation, and is both a practical skill and a source of enjoyment and community for women.
When she came to the United States in search of a higher education, Soli was struck by the negative and narrow perceptions many people had of Africa. Despite the rich history, culture, and abundance of her homeland, many people saw Africa as a place of poverty and lack. Soli knew that this was not the full picture, and she was determined to challenge these misconceptions and share the true depth and richness of her culture with the world.
That’s why she founded Expedition Subsahara - as a way to connect her two very different worlds and share the beauty and abundance of her culture with others. Through her business, Soli works with a team of over 120 Senegalese weavers to create beautiful handmade home goods that showcase the incredible skill and expertise of African craftsmanship. She believes that by sharing her culture with the world, she can make a positive impact and help to revolutionize the way African products are perceived and sold.
But Soli’s ambitions don’t stop there. She is also committed to empowering future generations and providing girls and young women with the education and opportunities they need to become leaders. That’s why a portion of her sales is earmarked to build and operate a STEAM school for girls in Senegal, once the business is well-established and able to maintain operations. Soli knows that education is the key to a bright future, and she is determined to give back to her community.
Soli’s journey as an entrepreneur has not been easy. She faced many challenges and obstacles along the way, but her determination and hard work have helped her build a successful business. She credits her parents, who instilled in her a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact in the world, with helping her to stay motivated and focused.
“My parents always told me that it’s important to struggle, because it’s the struggle that makes you strong and innovative,” Soli said. “They wanted me to be a good person and leave a good legacy, rather than focusing on a specific industry. They allowed me to dream and encouraged me to follow my passions, no matter how difficult the path might be.”
Soli’s love for her culture and her commitment to empowering future generations have helped her to overcome any setbacks and keep moving forward. And she is grateful for the support of her team of weavers, who share her vision and are dedicated to creating beautiful, high-quality products.
“I am so grateful to be able to work with such a talented and passionate team,” Soli said. “We are all committed to sharing our culture and craftsmanship with the world, and to making a positive impact through our business. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it when we see the joy and satisfaction our products bring to our customers.”
Soli’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of following your passions and using your talents to make a difference in the world. She is a true inspiration, and her business, Expedition Subsahara, is a celebration of African culture and craftsmanship that is changing the way the world sees Africa and African products.
