Oliberté Limited makes shoes with a conscience. Made with premium leather from Ethiopia and rubber from Liberia, with additional materials sourced from other African countries, the premium footwear can be found on the feet of celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Kristen Stewart and K’Naan.

As a co-founder of the international charity, MBAs Without Borders (MWB), Tal Dehtiar knew that he wanted to make a difference in the world.  But he also knew he had to find a way to support himself and his family while doing so.  Entrepreneurship allowed him to combine his passion for philanthropy with his drive for enterprise.

Having seen first-hand the importance of a sustainable economy in developing countries, Tal decided that while Oliberté products would be sold around the world, they would be made exclusively in Africa.  This way, his company could help support the African economy and help create a thriving middle class. Today, Oliberté supports more than 250 factory workers in Africa.

The humble young entrepreneur insists that his innovative business plan is one that should be status quo.

“We are not a charity,” Tal explains. “Our goal is to create jobs in Africa by selling and marketing quality fashionable footwear that is made in Africa.”

“Some may call this charitable, but we don’t.  We believe that treating workers well and building up the economy isn’t charitable but should simply be the way people do business in Africa.”

Entrepeer Weekly is an online newsletter for CYBF entrepreneurs, mentors and community partners.  For more information on Entrepeer Weekly, please contact marketing@cybf.ca.

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