By this we mean that we are committed to keeping overheads, payments and costs within ‘the North’ to a minimum. By this, we mean that our focus is on Smallholder Producers in the developing world – though business and market acess empowerment so that they are no longer at the mercy of the many players involved in the supply chain. By this we mean that we will work with communities at both ends of the supply chain – to ensure that the realities of living in a developing country and grafting to create a raw product; usually consumed in the North – are both understood and cherished.

Internationally, the LYF supports smallholder producers in developing countries to build their commercial capacity, shorten supply chains; and create local brands and markets. The LYF has developed, raised funds for, delivered and advised on projects in Ethiopia, Malawi, Uganda, Kenya and Palestine; working with coffee, tea, macadamia, rice and olive growers.

We believe that buying fairly traded products is a great way to start to take action. But each of us can do even more than just becoming ethical shoppers.  We believe in CREATIVE AND DIRECT ACTION and we are proving that grassroots organisations – whether in the North or South – posess both natural skills and abilities to be able to generate exciting and innovative enterprises. We are breaking new ground in order to create initiatives that can bring fair prices, employment and self-esteem to marginalised communities. You can find out how we set up the first ‘UK Community to Community Fairtrade Coffee’ – the Oromo Coffee Company on our 'Ventures' page. And read more about how we are working with young people from deprived communities in the UK in order to teach them about ethical trading – by practical steps in 'Ventures'.

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