Putting the Good in Goods

Introducing OM Global Goods: Creativity Across Continents

Founded by Maceo Thomas and Asabi Olaniye, we bring unique, high-quality products crafted by artisans from Mbour to Maryland.

Asabi, now an 1l-year cancer survivor, is committed to inspiring women and men through fashion, art, and cancer advocacy.

"This venture brings my health journey full circle."

Maceo, a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, returned to Senegal after 25 years with a desire to bridge his US community with his experiences there.

"I discovered that linking creatives was the key.'

Together, as friends and fellow healers, We are dedicated to putting the

"GOOD" in goods by supporting local talent and sustainable practices.

Each purchase invests in artisans livelihoods and cultural heritage.

Join our global community and make a difference, one beautiful piece at a time.

Since 1994, my passion for sewing has been rooted in simple memories: repairing the clothing of other members of my Baye Fall community while working in the fields with a pedal sewing machine. Every stitch I make carries the legacy of my beginnings, a deep connection to my culture and traditions.

Today, I find my inspiration in recycling. I transform old denim pants into bags and pouches, giving new life to materials that might otherwise be forgotten. This creative process is my way of celebrating the past while embracing the future. My wish is to share these works, not only by exhibiting them around the world but also by revealing the beauty of creations from senior citizens. 

Every bag I sell has a direct impact on my family. These sales are a source of livelihood, allowing me to overcome the challenges of daily life, especially in the absence of a pension. My dream is to travel with my creations, to touch hearts, and to convey a message of hope and resilience.

I firmly believe that, with the support of benefactors, my message will resonate. Through my work, I aspire to showcase the richness and depth of craftsmanship, an authentic expression of my life and journey.

Meet Bill Thomas, affectionately known as the Old Black Potter, whose journey into the world of pottery is as rich and vibrant as the pieces he creates. After a fulfilling career in engineering, Bill ventured into the arts during his retirement, motivated by a simple yet profound desire: to make flower pots. With no prior art \experience, he embraced this new passion, demonstrating that creativity knows no bounds, regardless of age or background.

As a trailblazer at the University of Maryland, Bill was among the first Black students in the School of Engineering. His academic journey paved the way for a career focused on making a difference, yet his heart always yearned for artistic expression. “If I had my whole life to live over again, I’d be a nursery man,” he reflects, revealing the dream that inspired his late-in-life pivot to pottery.

Despite grappling with lifelong tremors, Bill’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Each piece he creates is a reflection of his resilience and an extension of his life story. His pottery is not just functional; it is a canvas for his experiences, filled with warmth, hope, and a touch of humor. Through his hands, Bill crafts not only beautiful pots but also a narrative that encourages others to embrace their passions, regardless of life’s challenges.

Bill Thomas stands as an inspiring figure in the artistic community, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. His legacy is a powerful reminder that creativity is a journey worth taking—one that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us.