Our Green Journey: Nurturing Nature for 13 Years
Our journey towards a greener universe commenced over a decade ago, rooted in love for the environment and a dream that took root in our family-owned 8-acre piece of land in a quaint village in Sindh, the province of Pakistan. It all began with the planting of 450 date trees – a heartfelt tribute to my late father-in-law's cherished aspiration.
In the serene shade of those date trees, our family's love for the environment flourished. We didn't stop at cultivating dates; we also sowed the seeds of our own vegetables and wheat amidst the verdant landscape, fostering a harmonious coexistence with nature.
As someone who hails from the enchanting island of Mauritius and has made the United Kingdom her home for nearly two decades, I journeyed back to my roots, blending two worlds in a quest for a greener, more sustainable future. It was during a simple trip to the market in Mauritius, carrying groceries in a recycled plastic bag, that the seeds of innovation were sown. As the bag gave way under the weight of my shopping, I found myself wishing for something sturdier, something we call a "tente" in the language of Mauritius.
This epiphany paved the way for a more stylish, effective, and eco-friendly solution. Upon my return to England, I embarked on a journey to collaborate with artisans in Madagascar. We exchanged designs, ideas, and a shared passion for sustainability. The outcome of this creative synergy is a testament to our commitment to eco-conscious living. Three years on, we've not only re-imagined fashion but also planted more than a thousand mango trees, contributing to the regeneration of the planet we all call home.
Today, we are delighted to announce the expansion of our mission. In addition to our eco-friendly handcrafted bags, we are thrilled to introduce a new chapter in our journey— sustainable cotton clothing, African fashion for the UK and handmade jewellery. Our clothing line brings you the rich tapestry of African culture and style while upholding our commitment to sustainability.
Charting a Sustainable Path Forward
As we look to the future, our commitment to sustainability and positive impact remains unwavering. Our vision is clear, and our mission is to:
Job Creation and Fair Pay:
We are dedicated to creating even more employment opportunities, not only for the underprivileged labourers but also for the existing artisans who craft our products. Our promise is to continue paying them fairly for their exceptional work, fostering economic empowerment.
Transparency and Accountability:
In our quest for sustainable practices, we've gone the extra mile to ensure that our artisans are working in safe and ethical conditions. In 2022, I personally visited Madagascar to witness the working conditions and provide them with a voice in our shared journey.
Our dedication to positive change and ethical business practices is not just a goal; it's a promise. We remain committed to these principles and to you, our valued supporters, who make it all possible. Together, we'll continue to create, innovate, and make the world a better place.
Our Commitment to Making a Difference
Over the course of the past three years, our journey has extended beyond fashion and environmental sustainability. It's a testament to our belief in the power of community, compassion, and responsible business practices. Through your unwavering support, we've achieved the following:
Job Creation: We've provided employment opportunities for some of the most economically vulnerable labourers, enriching their lives while cultivating our lands.
Supporting Artisans: Your orders have directly contributed to supporting the livelihoods of talented artisans in Madagascar.
Aid During Adversity: During challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and adverse weather conditions, we extended a helping hand to Madagascar's artisans with essential donations.
Charitable Endeavours: We've been active in charitable work, accumulating funds to assist the people of Sindh during massive floods. Notably, we've played a role in restoring a school in the Sindh province.
Community Outreach: Our commitment extends to our local community. We've distributed food and essential supplies to over a hundred people in times of need.
Global Contributions: Beyond our immediate community, we've made donations to reputable charities, including The British Heart Foundation and Ukraine Aid.
All of these meaningful efforts are a result of the incredible support we've received from our valued customers, friends and famillies. Together, we're making a tangible, positive impact on the world.
Thank you for standing with us. We really appreciate You.
Mrs Shyama Ghumro
Owner and CEO
Emerald Artisans