Three Brits and a Mexican!

The company came about through the various interests of 4 people. 3 Brits and a Mexican. Rocio Ordonez is a Mexican Graphic designer with a passion for Fair Trade; Iain Mabbott developed the website; Zoë Young and Jane Kellas have a personal commitment to Fair Trade that is reflected both in and outside of their careers in the international development sector. We also receive the generous voluntary assistance of our Press Officer, Cathy Macmillan, and advice on our business development from Daniel Meguille at the Haringey Business Development Agency.

Starting at a time when most dot.com’ers were making their millions, in late 1999, the aim was to use the power of the web to open up opportunities to bring Fair Trade jewellery to people who may never visit Mexico, but, through their shopping choice, could enhance the lives of whole communities.

Silverchilli was also borne out of a desire to blow away the myth that 'third world' goods/crafts are of an inferior quality, to be bought out of sympathy for the cause rather than true desire for the product. An ironic perception when you consider that most 'labelled' clothing is made in sweatshops in the developing world, and that most Fair Trade goods are hand made to a high quality.