Our Social Impact

 

Our jewelry is handwoven in small batches by talented women artisans living in Medellin, Colombia. We are committed to offering bead weaving training and employment to women living in vulnerable communities.  Many of our artisans are single mothers, members of the displaced indigenous Embera community, and live in substandard housing conditions in underserved neighborhoods that are often plagued by violence and poverty.  Finding stable and dignified work is not simple for many of our artisans, making it even more important that we offer them this opportunity.

Although some of our team members had previous bead weaving experience, we are dedicated to offering training to those who show interest but have never once touched or seen a Miyuki bead. Emily dedicates time to teaching them basic skills and then, as they develop those skills, they are given their first pieces of real work.

**Our mission is to foster each artisan in such a way that they can continue to grow and thrive within our team over the long-term while maximizing their earning potential.

In order to do this, we are committed to offering fair labor practices which means:

- We are transparent with our team members about our policies. We review and sign contracts with them, which outline our expectations and define our working relationship.

- Our artisans work from their homes which allows them the flexibility to care for their children simultaneously and tend to other responsibilities that they may have. 

- They create their own work schedule and decide how much time they can dedicate to the craft. 

- Our artisans are paid per piece, at prices previously discussed and agreed upon.  Paying per piece allows them to work at their own pace.

- Our price/piece can allow them to earn a living wage in Colombia. 

- They are paid on a regular schedule which allows them a sense of stability and predictability which is important for them to maintain a consistent financial contribution to their household.

As Mayana grows, the hope is that we can expand our ability to provide much-needed income to vulnerable women and their families.