NationWares supports disabled artisans around the world
KITCHENER, ON�"While an estimated 80-90 per cent of those with disabilities in the developing world are unemployed, they are frequently “last in line" to receive new employment opportunities says the founder of NationWares.
While finishing an undergraduate degree in sociology and global studies at Wilfred Laurier University, Amie Sider had a work placement at Christian Horizons (CH Global) where she developed a way to enable those with “exceptional needs" to create their own way out of poverty.
The resulting social enterprise, NationWares, now combines the artistic creativity and ingenuity of micro-enterprise with an international Fair Trade business.
Running as a division of CH Global, NationWares now supports small businesses and entrepreneurs in 10 different countries around the world, including Canada. Products include items like jewelry, bags, scarves, paper products and moccasins, which are sold through their web site and at events.
“Our focus is to work with marginalized and vulnerable people," Sider says, “both internationally and right here in our own community."
Many of the stories of the entrepreneurs behind the products are told on NationWares' web site.
“The heart of NationWares is connecting people at the most powerful level," Sider says, “the heart. We want people to know the heart that is beating behind the products and the stories of the people who created them. When you can follow the creation of a product from start to finish, knowing that it is free from injustice and inequality, you can truly value the person who made it, and celebrate their story of triumph and prosperity."
NationWares purchases the products upfront from the small businesses, ensuring they receive not only a fair wage, but a reliable and consistent source of income.
“Not only do we make sure they have enough to cover costs," Sider says, “we also help them open a savings account, to help support both the businesses and their families."
Profits generated by NationWares are invested back into new micro-enterprises.
“As Christians we are called to the most marginalized, just as Jesus spent His time with them while He was here on Earth," she adds. “I believe there is so much we can learn from people with exceptional needs. In many cases they are so grateful for the opportunity to have employment, they end up not only being able to provide for themselves and their families, but also for the greater community as well."
Dear Readers:
ChristianWeek relies on your generous support. please take a minute and donate to help give voice to stories that inform, encourage and inspire.
Donations of $20 or more will receive a charitable receipt.Thank you, from Christianweek.
