Gift Guide: Fair Trade Mother's Day.

Do you have a mother? If so, Mother's Day is coming up, & what better way to celebrate than by giving her a handmade goodie from Africa?! Not only will she have an adorable item to wear, share, or use, but the purchase will also be helping a brother or sister in Africa. It's like the gift that keeps on giving. 

For the fashionesta: 31 Bits is the perfect gift for the mama who loves accessories. 31 Bits is a socially minded business designed to give internally displaced women in Northern Uganda an opportunity to counter poverty. By giving their beneficiaries access to the international market, they are able to earn an instant income, providing homes, food, and education for their families. Their program equips women by providing literacy education, financial and vocational training, holistic care, and strong support systems, empowering individuals to further their careers and attain social equity. Learn more here.

 For the on-the-go mom: No. 41's signature bag is the perfect "everything bag." (...not to mention their adorable aprons!) No. 41 started on a whim and a prayer in March 2012, with the intent of teaching young women from the Noel Orphanage in Gisenyi, Rwanda (ages 18-25) not only to sew, a culturally relevant trade that would always sustain them, but to give back to their community through a feeding program supporting local schools. Learn more here.

For the mover & the shaker: Sseko sandals are adorable, and their possibilities are endless. For a daring mom who wants to always keep things fresh, this is the way to go. Sseko began as a way to generate income for high potential, talented young women to continue on to university. Sseko has graduated three classes of women. Every woman who has graduated from Sseko is currently pursuing her college degree. In addition to our university-bound team, Sseko also employs a full-time team of women from all walks of life. By creating an environment of dignity, honor, creativity and dedication, Sseko Designs provides the opportunity for women in East Africa to end the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable society. Learn more here.

 For the happy homemaker: Noonday Collection has a little bit of everything. From journals to tea towels, wooden salad servers and more! The passion at Noonday Collection is to connect you with the lives of artisans struggling for a better future while styling you along the way. Fashion and design are a vehicle for opportunity and change. You, too, can be a voice for the oppressed! Learn more here. 

For the world traveler: Whether it be a passport holder or a camera strap, His Imbaraga has you covered. His Imbaraga is a business located in Gisenyi, Rwanda producing handcrafted leather products. It was designed to support the community of Gisenyi by providing men with a sustainable job and allowing the proceeds to benefit the greater community. When you shop at His Imbaraga you are truly purchasing with a purpose. We can’t wait to share all of the exciting ways we will be able to give back to the community with your help! Learn more here.