Kigali, Rwanda: Same Sky is a fair-trade company whose mission is to empower women worldwide and inspire a movement of women empowering women. Founded in 2008, SAME SKY aims to be a part of the global movement lifting women out of poverty by giving them the tools to become entrepreneurs and lead self sustaining lives.
During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, women in Rwanda were subjected to sexual violence on a massive scale. According to the International Criminal Tribunal, more than 250,000 women were raped and, of the survivors, approximately 70% were infected with HIV/AIDS. In addition, they were left impoverished after their husbands, fathers, and brothers were murdered. Same Sky was born with the goal of empowering these women to rebuild their lives and communities.
In Rwanda, Same Sky first partnered with Gahaya Links, a handicrafts organization founded in 2004 by sisters Janet Nkubana and Joy Ndunguste. The artisans making SAME SKY bracelets work in a collective and are free to discuss social issues of the day such as domestic violence, western medicine, and opening a bank account. SAME SKY also provides the women artisans with a daily stipend that covers transportation to and from work and a daily meal. Their wage is ten times the average wage made by women in sub-Saharan Africa. The income they earn ensures they can provide food, education, and healthcare for their entire family.
Special Designer Offer: Use code NL0728 to receive 20% off all of Same Sky's glass beaded bracelets!