In 2019, co-founders Joey Li and Thuta Khin met during their masters in London. After bonding over their shared experiences of growing up in Asia and moving to the UK, they discovered a mutual passion rooted in a deep understanding of structural inequality, something they both witnessed from a young age and felt “helpless” about the situation. This passion drove their vision to create a brand dedicated to improving the quality of life for underserved communities.

As they spent every day commuting around London, Joey and Thuta noticed a simple yet striking need: clean socks were one of the most requested items at homeless shelters alongside clean underwear, water, hot meals and more. Driven to make a difference, they launched Leiho in 2019 as a “buy one, give one” sock company, aiming to provide this basic necessity to those in need.

Just three months into their journey, the Covid-19 lockdown hit. What began with selling on Oxford Street and winning hearts at pop-up markets now had to pivot to an entirely e-commerce business model. Despite the challenges, their determination and adaptability allowed Leiho to thrive, growing quickly during the pandemic by actively supporting charities across London working on the frontlines. From winning “Small Business Under 30s” on Not on the Highstreet to getting featured on BBC Radio 1 and Grazia, since then, Leiho has donated thousands of essential items to shelters, refugee camps, and low-income households across London.

In 2022, after connecting more deeply with the people they served, Joey and Thuta discovered a greater purpose for Leiho.

"When we were out on the streets handing out a hot meal or donating clean clothes to a shelter, we really made the conscious effort to get to the know the people we were supporting. After getting to know a few people and hearing their stories, it wasn’t long until we saw clearly that what humans need most to thrive is that sense of belonging, self worth and confidence. Just a simple belief in yourself that you can do it and if you don’t have that self belief then at least having someone on the sidelines to cheer you on. We make sure Leiho stands on the sidelines for those who need it most."

Joey Li, CEO & Co-Founder at Leiho

Today, Leiho is more than just a brand. It’s a mission to empower socio-economically disadvantaged communities through creating equitable and inclusive employment opportunities within the business and ways to learn new skills. 

"We want to help vulnerable individuals build brighter futures. We understand that sometimes we all can use a helping hand when going through difficult times. Through partnerships with impactful organisations like the Baytree Centre, Home-Start Islington, and SPEAR, our goal is to demonstrate how even the simplest items like the socks you put on in the morning or the candle you light in your living room can make a meaningful difference."

Thuta Khin, COO & Co-Founder at Leiho

Together, we’re creating a world where everyone belongs. Our story from socks to giving opportunities is a testament to our dedication towards using the power of our social enterprise to make a difference. To us, it’s always been quality over quantity. Whether it’s the impact we are making through our projects and partnerships or even our products.

Every product is designed to remind and inspire you to do good and feel great. We created Leiho because we ourselves love be a part of a community that drives change and we hope you will too.