the project: aarong artisan bracelets
Tonic's work with BRAC evolved after a visit to Bangladesh by Tonic's founder, Pankaj Shah to the Aarong factory. Aarong is a fair trade organization that brings about positive changes in the lives of disadvantaged artisans and rural women by reviving and promoting their skills and craft.
While touring the factory, Shah noticed the condition of the artisan's old sewing machines and offered to buy new ones. The BRAC representative declined, because new machines would increase efficiency and cause layoffs, which is contrary to its goal of employment. Shah then partnered with the Aarong artisans to create and exclusively sell these unique bracelets, made with a blend of silver, copper and gold, with a handmade band and clasp.
our partners: aarong artisans
Aarong artisans are a collection of weavers, potters, jewelers, jute workers and others collectively working under BRAC's fair trade organization. With nearly 65,000 artisans in the organization, they work together to create and sustain a market for their innovative and stylish products while BRAC acts as the protector and promoter of Bangladeshi handicrafts, bringing them to sale in the global arena.
your impact
Purchasing Tonic's Aarong artisan bracelets actively promotes human rights, dignity and gender equity through environmentally sustainable poverty reduction programs. By adopting a holistic approach, BRAC transitions aid recipients into empowered citizens, working with 70,000 villages and 2,000 slums in Bangalore alone and providing them with economic opportunity, social stability and general welfare support.
The production of these bracelets help to employ over 100,000 people, amongst them teachers, health staff, microfinance officers, and enterprise managers. Together, they make vital resources easily accessible to the poor, and make them relevant and adaptable to their needs so that they may rebuild their lives and achieve financial independence.
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Mary Simpson
posted: Mon Jul 20, 2009 2:17 PM
Love your work. How might I get involved?
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