Latitudes Invest by Example at Their Own Fundraiser
Latitudes exists to market and advocate for artisan-based small businesses around the world who seek to impact resource-deprived communities, particularly in poverty stricken regions. Latitudes comes alongside small business owners to help develop marketable products and effective sales channels that allow for employment, job training, and sustainable income for families and individuals. Each of these small businesses are invested in their local communities and seek to impact those with the greatest need for empowerment, advocacy, and opportunity.
Latitudes, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering artisans from isolated areas around the world, has been making a significant impact on the lives of these talented individuals. Their mission is simple yet profound: provide a genuine business outlet for artisans to create, sell their handcrafted products, and, in the process, positively transform their families and communities. With a focus on micro-business enterprises, Latitudes not only offers a market for these artisans but also provides essential support in various aspects of their lives, from business management training to education for their families.
One of the remarkable artisan businesses Latitudes has partnered with is the Khushbu Project. Khushbu, situated in the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, began as an educational initiative for migrant women and their families in 2011. What began with literacy training swiftly expanded into various activities such as jewelry making, self-help savings groups, forums on social justice, and after-school tutoring for children. These activities not only imparted new skills but also provided social support and a better understanding of basic human rights. Over time, Khushbu evolved into a socially responsible business committed to ethical and just practices, creating a positive impact on artisans, their families, their community, and the environment.
Latitudes’ Fundraising Collaboration with Khushbu
For the past three years, Latitudes has organized a golf fundraising tournament to raise funds for strategic growth opportunities. One unique aspect of these tournaments is that they gift each golfer a handcrafted item created by one of their artisan teams. These gifts serve a dual purpose – they showcase the incredible talents of the artisans while also raising awareness about the products they produce. The first two years featured a stuffed elephant and a Christmas ornament. However, this year, Latitudes introduced something novel, a leather valuables pouch, a product their artisan teams had never made before.
Creating this unique item was no small feat. Latitudes had no sample to send overseas for production, so they resorted to sending photos to their team in India. Thanks to their skill and creativity, the team in India managed to create a production sample and sent it back with another product order for review. A few modifications were made, and the result was an exquisite branded pouch that perfectly aligned with the origins of golf in Scotland, thanks to its plaid fabric liner. This small addition not only paid homage to the game's heritage but also showcased the artisans' adaptability and creativity.
The impact of including this artisan-made product in the golf tournament was substantial. It allowed Latitudes to purchase an additional $2,500 worth of products from the Khushbu team, thereby supporting their craft and creating a new product for future sales. The collaboration between Latitudes and the Khushbu Project not only elevates the quality of the tournament but also contributes to the continued growth and empowerment of the artisans.
One of the standout individuals at Khushbu is Ajay, the master artisan. Ajay's skills extend across various aspects of product creation, from block-printing to leatherwork. His ability to listen to Latitudes' ideas and transform them into reality is nothing short of magical. He not only understands but embodies the vision of empowering women at Khushbu and has played a pivotal role in training nearly every woman who has passed through their doors. His dedication to creating and teaching others with care and skill exemplifies the essence of the Khushbu Project's mission.
Neeraj, another remarkable individual at Khushbu, learned to sew at the project several years ago. Recently, she decided to challenge herself by taking on the more complex task of crafting leather bags and computer sleeves. Neeraj is not only a skilled artisan but also a natural encourager, always eager to witness the success of others. Her journey from a novice to a craftsman embodies the growth and empowerment that the Khushbu Project and Latitudes are striving to achieve.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Latitudes and the Khushbu Project during their golf fundraising tournament exemplifies the positive impact that socially responsible businesses can have on artisans in isolated areas. By showcasing their talents and introducing new products, Latitudes not only supports these artisans financially but also provides them with opportunities to expand their skill sets and improve their lives. It's a beautiful testament to the power of partnership and the transformative potential of artistry.
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Learn more about ‘Latitudes’ and donate to their cause here.