“Hi!”: A project that combines craft Sao Tome technology – Jornal de Negócios – Portugal

The functions of the “pen” USB is the same in any “pen” USB. But its surroundings not. This device has around horn cattle and wood Cedrela and coconut, two types of very common wood in Sao Tome and Principe. The work of carving is done by local artisans.

Hi! – Handcrafted Innovation

This project is called “Hi Handcrafted Innovation” and is the first social entrepreneurship that brings together artisans of this country to develop products that link the craft technology. The “Hi!” born of cooperation between Torke + CC Portuguese agency with the Government of São Tomé and the Portuguese Embassy in Sao Tome.

The theme for the launch of this project came after Peter Joy, one of the founder of the agency creative Torke + DC, have been in Sao Tome and Principe. A training course organized by the Santa Casa da Misericordia led him to this country and contact with local artisans. The idea of ​​turning “pens” with the use of traditional materials came after contact with these craftsmen and as a way of boosting Sao Tome and Principe.

“In the background is to help build bridges in two different worlds. Whereas Sao Tome and Principe is a very small country and also with a limited market, to create these bridges between craft and the technology we want to internationalize Sao Tome and open new markets. Looking [also] make impact on the local economy. at the same time, this also serves to export the culture of Sao Tome and promote the country as a tourist destination and not only, but also their culture, “says the Business Peter Joy (pictured), founder and creative responsibility area Torke + CC.

with the” birth “of” Hi! ” a network of artisans was created. “There are about 30 and is an inclusive network. We work with different workshops. We are focusing a lot on knowledge transfer. We are investing in training given by experienced craftsmen,” also notes the head of Torke + CC.

And are these craftsmen responsible for the wood that is carved for information storage devices, which can already be purchased on the internet. In addition to these devices, this project of social entrepreneurship is also developing remote controlled cars , which are made of wood, ox horn and wire. Peter Joy points out, however, that more products can be developed.

The Portuguese company has the support of a non-governmental organization (NGO) operating in Sao Tome to the “management of the operation locally.”