Hello Oumarou, tell us more about Vänge Ecological Soap Company and how it all began!

I had recently come to Sweden and played drums in a band. There I met Kajsa Bilius who ran Vänge Organic Soap Factory alongside many other things. When we got to know each other, I told her about my craft background from West Africa, how I helped my mother and grandmother make soap, which was a fun coincidence. The soap that Kajsa produced in Vänge was made in the same way as in my home country – a craft with only natural and organic ingredients, without chemicals or preservatives. In 2018, I was given the opportunity to take over Vänge Organic Soap Factory and I am incredibly grateful for that. I am really passionate about this!

How did you come into contact with Upplandsbygd?

A customer who usually buys our organic soaps told me about Upplandsbygd and told me that it supported small businesses in rural areas. Through their program, I had the opportunity to learn more about running a business in Sweden.

What inspired you to pursue more sustainable entrepreneurship?

For me, organic is natural, for example using organic raw materials and not mixing chemicals or toxins in production. This is also what has been the foundation of Vänge Organic Soap Factory since Kajsa started the business in 2010.

In Sweden I noticed that many people use industrially produced soap, and that many also suffer from skin and health problems. There is a great demand for natural products without weirdness. My theory today is that we need local production of natural products, it is not sustainable to ship and ship products all over the world. At the same time, we support each other when we buy locally grown.

How has your business developed since you were accepted into the program?

I have gained a larger network of contacts through the other entrepreneurs in the program. I have also come to realize that I cannot do everything myself, for example, being the one who both produces and sells the products. Our organic soaps are in demand and I will focus on getting help from retailers to get our products out in the country. But I have a little left to be able to stand on my own two feet.

What does sustainable entrepreneurship mean to you?

Sustainable entrepreneurship for me is about contributing organic products to the local market, created from organic locally produced raw materials. The alternative is to go to other countries to bring home products and raw materials, which feels unnecessary when everything you need is here. Sustainable entrepreneurship can be equated with bees pollinating plants – where the climate, the economy and the social interact.

Tips for sustainable entrepreneurship

My tip is don't be afraid! Dare to take the first step and believe in what you're doing. Tell and explain to others why you're doing it, and don't give up – it may take some time before your project pays off.