A lifelong lover of beautiful things, Irene Held started Indaba in 1990. Inspired by her South African roots, she has always had a passion for handicrafts and sought to share her love of handmade design with North Americans. That passion for living through a lens of beauty resonated deeply with her daughter Alison, and together they travel the world in search of beautiful people, products, and purpose.
A bit of history...
Irene started Indaba thirty years ago on her kitchen table. A new South African immigrant to Vancouver Island, Canada with two small children, and no support network, she was driven to bring her belief - that life is better when you surround yourself with meaningful things that provide comfort, pleasure, and beauty - to reality.
Over the years, Indaba has grown to become a prominent home and lifestyle brand known for eclectic, handmade style that is full of heart.
Indaba knows no bounds and is constantly evolving and looking for innovative and original design pieces to make your home your haven. Irene and her daughter Ali travel worldwide to source their designs, with a particular focus on India. In love with India's rich textile heritage and artisanal traditions, they love working with the artisans who handmake each item and bring their vision to life.
Indaba is a Zulu word that means "a gathering of people". By implication it means connection and we are excited to connect with you through our story, our products, and the people who make them.
Canada
USA