About Us
The inspiration behind Universal Village
During a trip through India and East Africa in 1998 I was touched and inspired by many of the creative and hardworking people I met who managed to live on $1 or $2 a day. I was amazed at their resilience and generosity in the face of what seemed like insurmountable odds.
After reading about Fair Trade I was excited by the idea and saw its potential to change the lives of the farmers involved. I also believed it was an idea that would resonate with Australians as it goes hand in hand with our belief that everyone deserves a 'fair go'.
With experience in administration, encyclopedia sales, professional cookery, championship skydiving, airplane detailing, and with a rich heritage of ancestral traders from Russia, I knew I was just the right person to start Australia's first 100% dedicated Fair Trade food business!
I decided to commit to raising awareness of Fair Trade in Australia and started Universal Village as a vehicle to become actively involved and import more products into Australia.
The thing I really love about Fair Trade is that it gives people the opportunity to be involved in making a difference in a direct way. While economists debate the merits of 'free versus fair trade', people who purchase certified Fair Trade product can be satisfied in the knowledge that the farmers who grew the product did receive a better price for it, as well as receiving a Fair Trade Premium which is paid in addition.
Being incredibly keen foodies, my business partner and I enjoy the task of sampling products - and do it diligently I might add! You can be assured that everything we sell is the best on offer.
We hope you have as much enjoyment buying and using Fair Trade products as we have had in bringing them to you.
As always, feel free to drop us a line. We love to hear your opinions and we'll do our best to answer any questions you might have.
Nicole Lamond-Philp