The kids of Mumosho

This photo was taken in April outside the back door of our Sewing Center.  My travel mates and I had just finished interviewing all of The Peace Exchange semastesses and stepped outside to get some fresh air.  The interviews are intense as we document the women's stories of trauma and life events.  Let's just say life knew what we needed... These kids came running up to us and stopped right in the middle of their soccer game to say hi.  They asked me to take their photos and then proceeded to run in the grass and do back flips.  No lie, the little boy with the red shirt can do one amazing back tuck and layout.  It was an afternoon I will never forget.  I often find that when you put yourself in the flow of the universe, it gives you what you need - when you need it... now that's something to ponder... 

The latest from DRC

As we enter the end of July I am excited to announce a brand new line of fabrics and new import that arrive in the US next week...  Thanks to the talented seamstresses of The Peace Exchange!  Currently we support close to 60 hard-working women in Congo.  Our collection line now includes 15 products ranging from our most popular napkins to a hipster collection featuring bow ties and pocket squares.  We have even created a beach collection with African wax print beach bags and beach blankets.  We are blessed to be able to support women half way across the world due to your support in fair trade.  Thank you to all who follow the #PeaceExcahnge.  We are grateful and want to continue to express how this effort involves many, thanks again.

CSI Supports Fair Trade

How excited were we when we heard Robert David Hall, from CSI decided to support The Peace Exchange and use our market tote/wine bag! Thanks Mr. Hall! It only makes sense that someone who has gone through their fair share of obstacles would choose to support women in Congo - individuals who have also had extreme struggles. In the late 1970's, Robert had both of his legs amputated as a result of an accident in which an 18-wheeler truck crushed his car. The accident also caused the gasoline tank of the car to explode, causing burns over 65% of his body. He now comfortably uses prostheticlimbs, allowing for personal mobility. Several of his characters, including his CSI character, have openly shared this disability. He is a prominent advocate for disabled Americans. In addition to starring on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Robert has appeared in such films as Starship Troopers and The Negotiatorand has made guest appearances in a number of TV programs including The West Wing and L.A. Law.

WE APPRECIATE THE SUPPORT AND FAIR TRADE LOVE!

Meet Our Seamstresses

Meet the Women (and 1 man) of The Peace Exchange - Sustainable Fair Trade.  Our seamstresses are located in Eastern Congo in a region known as Mumosho.  Here at this sewing center we employ over 45 women who work in artisan fair trade.

All of our women, except 1 have children.  Most of the women have more than one child, single parents, and below the age of 30. 

We have 1 man on board, Boniface, who acts as a big brother to the women.  This is extremely important considering most of our women have been victims of sexual abuse.  

This year we have hired one young woman who is deaf as well.  It's been the biggest joy to see how the women embrace her and how they are all trying to learn sign language.

You see, when you are left with nothing - you create life with what you have.  The people around you become your family, your community.  I'm happy and honored to say that the women of The Peace Exchange are creating relationships of love and support for one another.  Acting as a support and family unit - something they never had.  

International Women's Day

I recently traveled to Central Africa - the place your mother always tells you not to go.  It was International Women's Day.  The country - Democratic Republic of Congo.  The purpose... Empower Women.  It was hot.  I was tired.  Jet-lag had set in and I had a pounding headache.  Yet I was to speak in front of 200 Congolese women.  Some had walked miles to hear the American give them words of hope and encouragement; it was a day I will never forget.  

Women across the world are still being mistreated.  Gender inequality exists.  In the most sickening way, rape still happens.  Physical abuse is not a crime in many nations.  To hit a woman is acceptable by law?!  

Fuck my dehydration and headache - there were greater issues at hand.  As I listened to women tell their stories, I knew much work needed to be done on an international level.     

The Peace Exchange is a non-profit working to create sustainable fair trade centers around the globe in the most desolate of places.  Through artisan fair trade, we employ local women, empower then to move out of poverty and strive for a commitment of education for the artisans and their children.

I recently traveled to Congo on International Women's Day...

The Peace Exchange is only beginning in its efforts to help women around the world...