Our Story

Every SmileGiver Batik t-shirt or accessory you wear helps give a parentless child a meal, a bed, and the chance to learn.

SmileGiver Batik started in 2008 when Sylvie visited her mother in Lomé, Togo. Each morning she heard children singing from the nearby Marie Reine de la Paix orphanage, and she was struck by their need for food, bedding, and basic care.

"Seeing how they lived broke my heart," Sylvie recalls. "I wanted to do something for them, I wanted to make them smile." From that desire, SmileGiver Batik was born.

Handmade African Batik Clothing & Accessories

Each piece, handmade, colorful, and 100% cotton, is unique. T-shirts feature African animals, while bags and accessories show abstract batik designs, often paired with inspiring quotes that spark conversation. These vibrant designs celebrate African artistry while spreading a global message of hope.

Giving Back With Every Purchase

We dedicate 10% of every sale to supporting orphanages, beginning with two in Africa and aiming to grow this effort globally. Your purchase provides food, clothes, bedding, and schooling for children who need it most.

Founder Note

"One orphanage at a time, one country at a time," says Sylvie. "My mission is to grow SmileGiver Batik to help orphanages worldwide, making life a little better for children without parents."