Jewellery That Changes Lives
Our polymer clay jewellery is so very, very special! All handmade in far Eastern Nepal by survivors of either domestic violence or human trafficking, it is not only absolutely stunning but is giving women dignity to hope for a future with financial security.
The women live in Birtamod in far East Nepal, and are supported by Samunnat Nepal - a female led NGO passionate about empowering women who have escaped violence in some form. Koplia began the grassroots organisation and now works with her team in Jhapa, Nepal.
In 2006 Wendy (an Australian polymer clay artist) and her husband began training the women to make the beautiful polymer jewellery. Wendy lived in Nepal for 4 years and taught them every second week - creating not just employment for the women, but a future for themselves and their children.
"We’d seen, first hand, the problems associated with Nepal’s dependence on foreign aid. Corruption is endemic. Aid can be well-intentioned but harmfully paternalistic.
We wanted to establish a sustained relationship with Samunnat Nepal so that we could assist them to do what they identified would help the women."
The women also receive legal advice and representation - this is huge for women who mainly have not had a voice in their own lives prior.
They and their children have access to educational support and medical aid. This is a holistic NGO, and great importance is placed on the well being of the family as a whole.
Until next time,
