The nature of a social enterprise is to tackle social problems within business models. For us to succeed we will need to employ intelligent strategy and effective public relations. Success will create jobs in Egypt, Europe and Palestine, thus stimulating each of their economies. Two Samouni family members are truck drivers who will be paid employees of Aloha Palestine. Within our business model we shall work with the Palestinians as equal partners, not as benefactors. We shall not foster dependency, we are enabling independence.
Trade Not Aid comprises Palestinians and internationals working together for common and mutually agreeable goals. Together we have the wisdom of Palestinian culture, the understanding of the Western market and mindset, we are young and old, we are Internet and social media savvy, and we have significant backing from around the globe.
Make no mistake, the people of Palestine have determined Trade Not Aid’s priorities and they are the primary stakeholders in our mission. As a social enterprise our success will not be measured by profits, it will be measured by the ability of the people of Gaza to work in dignified jobs, conduct international trade profitably, rebuild their homes and factories, develop their economy and to shed their charitable dependency status. That is our ultimate mission.
