(This is the first in a series about fair trade artisans around the world. They are all employed by groups partnering with Trades of Hope, with which I’m a Compassionate Entrepreneur. The text in these entries are the words of Trades of Hope. If you purchase any Trades of Hope product after clicking a link in this entry, I receive a commission. Please see my World Changer post for more info.)

In our Spring catalog that launched January 8th, one product made by artisans in Kenya is our gorgeous new Alice Set. Each purchase provides dignified employment for artisans with disabilities, like Alice, who no longer must resort to begging on the street. Alice exudes joy as she shares her story, below:

“My name is Alice, and I assemble jewelry. I’m happy doing this because I feel free. I feel like a person! Also, my work has helped me financially. Now, I can eat whatever I want and whenever I want. I can also save money. I even have a family! I have an adopted daughter and I can pay her school fees. It is not easy for people who are disabled in Kenya. They are treated poorly. We appreciate those who buy our jewelry so much because you support us! Please continue to shop our pieces so more people who are disabled can stop begging on the street.”