Hand Crafted Recycled Flip-Flop Giraffe Sculpture (Medium), "Gentle Giraffe"

Ocean Sole Africa started when the founder saw the need to clean up the beaches and waterways in order to save marine life, and at the same time employ people in an area that has an unemployment rate of 40%.

The group creates safari animal sculptures using discarded flip-flops which are collected from beaches, waterways and landfills. Endangered marine species are protected by removing such debris from the ocean. The designs are inspired by the endangered animals they protect.

Because they need discarded flip-flops as raw material, the group has partnered with the local community to bring discarded flip-flops to their workshop in exchange for money. They have also partnered with local schools, where they teach them about recycling and environmental conservation in general.

Last year Ocean Sole recycled over 1 million flip-flops. They also employ the local community, provide hot lunches to the artisans, and have a welfare program that helps artisans educate their kids, buy property, etc.

The biggest challenge that they face is getting a consistent supply of discarded flip-flops. High shipping expenses are also a challenge for the organization. Ocean Sole derives all of its revenue from the sales of their amazing products.

Raphael has been with the organization for over 10 years, and has been able to educate his children. One of his daughters is now studying in the university. Fred was recently able to purchase livestock in his rural community. With this livestock, he can provide for his family by selling milk and animals.

Short-term goals include bumping up sales by partnering with online global shops, especially during this time of the Coronavirus pandemic. They are also trying to ensure that the employees get assistance, so they are not handicapped by this awful situation.

Some of the long-term goals include increasing the number of flip-flops they collect in a year, as well as the number of artisans they employ. Ocean Sole plans to perfect their Kenyan model so as to be able to replicate it in other suitable countries like Brazil, India, Indonesia, etc.

Ocean Sole merchandise is eco-friendly and the perfect gift that keeps giving.