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| Image provided by Google Images |
31 Bits is an accessory
line created using 100 percent recycled materials in order to empower women in
Gulu, Uganda to rise above poverty. By recently launching their Spring 2013
Collection, 31 Bits is one of the businesses that produce socially-conscious
goods as an instrument for change.
Founder Kallie Dovel
traveled to Uganda in 2007 witnessing women making paper beads, but without a
plan to sell and market their goods. After listening to their stories, Dovel
returned to Southern California, teamed up with several friends and decided to
create an organization which evolved into 31 Bits. Dovel said, “We had a market
and they had a skill, together we had a business.” She continued, “We combined
creativity with recycled paper to make incredible jewelry…the identity of 31
Bits was born.”
Starting with six women
in 2008, the program has grown to 108 women making fashionable jewelry; each
with a unique story and unique dreams.
31 Bits Designs is a
business formed to give displaced women an opportunity to be entrepreneurs in
their situations of poverty. The beneficiaries have access to an international
market; this allows the women a chance to earn an instant income, which
provides homes, food, and an education for their families. Within the 31 Bits four-year
program, the women are provided with a literacy education, financial and
vocational training, all-inclusive care, AIDS and health education along with
community groups.
The company reported in
2012 that it has raised more than $500,000 for its employed women through
product sales.
Orombi Gladies is the
Livelihood Programming Manager in Uganda, who works hand-in-hand with the 31
Bits Uganda team, she says, “Our main purpose here is to empower the most
vulnerable women so that in the future they can sustain themselves.”
By gaining these skill
sets, the Uganda women have begun to chase their dreams. A 31 Bits video
explains the success stories of women who have taken their education and put it
towards entrepreneurship, saving their money for land, real estate, and to
continue their education at a higher level.
The media is taking
notice of these fashion designs as the word is spreading about 31 Bits. The Today’s Show, Access Hollywood, E! News,
People Magazine, and You & Your Wedding Magazine are some
examples of media coverage the company has been receiving for their movement of
fashion for the good.
With a small team and a
big vision, 31Bits.com says the best way for anyone to get involved is to
spread the word, like their Facebook page, throw a 31 Bits party, or volunteer
as an intern for a semester. Dovel adds, “31 Bits is part of a movement
revolutionizing how people do business…We believe that business is a powerful
force behind bringing change in women’s lives.”
XOXO,
Jayy
