31 Bits is a business using fashion and design to empower women to rise above poverty by equipping them with the tools to earn a sustainable income. They currently work with 108 women in Gulu, Uganda. They work with each woman by purchasing jewellery from her on a monthly basis, providing a consistent income. They will work with the woman until she has graduated from the from the programme and attained a sustainable means of income in her community. The programme includes finance training, vocational training, community groups, AIDS and health education and English and literacy lessons.
I'm loving the fresh colours of their accessories and how the designs manage to balance 'pretty' with 'funky'. The necklaces, bracelets and clutch above (each incorporating 100% recycled paper beads) are some of my favourite pieces. Browse the expansive collections on the 31 Bits website.
Thanks to Laura Marano (of Green-Safari) for introducing me to 31 Bits!
Images via the 31 Bits blog and Pinterest.
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- Mar Y Sol Accessories – a cross-cultural and cross-continental collaboration between artisans in Madagascar and artists in the US
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