Covenant Sisters

 

While in Holeta, a small village west (I think) or Addis, we got to visit the Covenant Sisters.  This was a group of 10 women who made beaded necklaces using hand-made beads made out of magazine paper and clay.  Their necklaces were absolutely beautiful.  But the work that went into these pieces of jewelry was incredible.  Tedious.  Time consuming.  And in the end, although their products were beautiful, they were mainly marketed to tourists, as locals would not have the money to spend on such an item. 

 

Although these women were able to make enough money to send their children to school, they did not make enough money to make any kind of profit in order to improve their quality of life. 

 

Before we met these women, we had heard of a proposed business plan that involved purchasing looms for the women.  Looms would generate clothing and blankets that could be used by the local people and would potentially create a larger profit because they would be able to sell their products to a larger market.  We knew that they ultimately wanted 10 looms (1 for each of the women), however they were hoping to be able to start with at least 6.  We were told the looms cost approximately $100 dollars a piece depending on the model. 

 

This was something many of our group felt very passionate about.  This was more than providing a new outfit or a gallon of cooking oil.  This was providing a means to help these women afford these items on their own! 

 

Cumulatively, our group left enough money for these women to get 10 looms, depending on the type of loom they chose to purchase.  We know that once these looms are purchased there will be months of training on order for them to be up and running on their own.  But we also learned that this kind of operation could employ more people, as they need people to set up the looms, work with the yarn, etc. 

 

These women need our prayers.  They are working hard for their families.  They are motivated to make a better life for their children.  They value education.  They are willing to learn. 

 

I bought several necklaces.  After meeting these women, I wished I could have purchased them all!!!  Our next trip, I hope to purchase a scarf (or 2 or 3) and maybe a blanket!   

 

 

 

 

1 bead was made from 4 layers of magazine, cut into long triangular strips,
rolled carefully, secured with glue, and then dipped in lacquer before stringing.   

I made this bead.

I wonder where it will end up....

 

 

Polished and ready to be strung on a necklace. 

 

If you are interested in purchasing products that help support women and their children, please visit the following website:
http://www.projecttesfa.org/