Anne Drane is a visionary leader, social entrepreneur, and international speaker dedicated to advancing women’s empowerment, sustainable fashion, poverty alleviation, and wildlife conservation. As the Founder of SAWA SAWA, a nonprofit and social enterprise, she has built an internationally recognized brand that uplifts artisan women, preserves cultural heritage, and promotes commerce as a tool for empowerment.
A Journey of Impact & Innovation
Born and raised in Kenya, Anne witnessed firsthand the economic barriers faced by women artisans despite their remarkable skills in traditional craftsmanship. After moving to the United States, she sought to bridge the gap between heritage, sustainability, and commerce, creating SAWA SAWA as a platform for artisan-led economic independence. Today, SAWA SAWA partners with Macy’s, Amazon, Faire, and other global retailers, helping expand the market for sustainably made, handwoven products while creating economic opportunities for women in rural Kenya. Anne’s mission extends beyond fashion—she is a recognized consultant and speaker in sustainability, philanthropy, and social impact strategies, specializing in: ✅ Sustainable solutions to poverty through economic empowerment ✅ Women’s leadership in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and nonprofits ✅ Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and foundation-led impact programs ✅ Using technology & AI to empower artisan communities & conservation efforts ✅ Philanthropy that works for Africa—rethinking international aid & grant-giving ✅ Indigenous wisdom in wildlife conservation & human-wildlife coexistence ✅ The effects of menstrual poverty on girls' education ✅ How sustainable fashion can be a force for cultural preservation & zero waste
Recognized Thought Leader & Speaker
Anne has spoken on global stages and consulted for international organizations, foundations, and corporations looking to make a meaningful impact through philanthropy, corporate sustainability, and economic empowerment programs. Key Speaking Engagements & Media Features United Nations Office of Partnerships (2023) – Panelist on Locally Led Sustainable Solutions University of Texas at Austin – Speaker on Sustainable Fashion & Social Entrepreneurship Macy’s Workshop Graduate & Speaker (2024) – Featured panelist on Commerce as a Tool for Empowerment Slow Fashion Festival, Austin, TX (2024, 2025) – Speaker on Ethical Fashion & Sustainable Solutions KXAN’s Remarkable Woman of Central Texas (2023) – Recognized for Women’s Empowerment & Social Impact Nominated for Product Innovation by Woman Way Awards (2023) Media Coverage: Featured in Reader’s Digest and other major news publications Corporate & Nonprofit Consultant – Advises corporations, foundations, and international grant-giving entities on how to create sustainable, high-impact CSR and philanthropy programs Consulting & Workshops for Corporations & Foundations Anne is a trusted consultant for international grant-giving, aid, and philanthropic efforts, advising: Corporations & Foundations on sustainable social impact strategies Retailers & Brands on supply chain ethics, sustainable sourcing, and fair trade practices Nonprofits & Social Enterprises on economic development and funding strategies Government & Development Agencies on locally led sustainable solutions