Before I share Jenn’s story I want you to know that I thought Noonday products were just overpriced products. Why would I buy something cute from her for $45 when I can get something just as cute TJ Maxx for $25 or less?
When you purchase from Noonday you are buying more than just jewelry, you are linking hands with woman on the other side of the world, making a difference in their lives. You get to do this while you wear a super cute pair of earnings, tote your stuff around in a trendy bag, or throw on a necklace heading out for the day, proud and knowing you made a difference with just one small purchase.
Guest post by Jenn Kujawa
I can choose to be a small drop that collects into an ocean of change.
My drop in the ocean as a Noonday Ambassador is to be the voice of the most vulnerable and impoverished in 3rd world countries. I create a marketplace for artisans to sell their gorgeous handmade pieces through fair trade. Dignified jobs are creating a ripple effect of hope and dignity in their communities.
Every year I have the chance to travel to countries I never imagined I’d fall in love with. My recent trip to India has by far been the most exotic and hospitable journey so far. My ambassador friends and I were greeted with garlands of marigolds, beating drums and dancing as we met each new group of artisans.
While sitting with one particular group who had traveled a long way to meet us, I learned more about the plight of women in these communities. A culture with deep roots in oppression of women. Not being allowed to leave their homes. Forced to marry at a young age and begin a family. Safety issues are the norm along with threats and abuse.
These women have no voice.
No way out.
A small unassuming woman stood up to share her story. As our eyes met, I saw an unshakeable quiet confidence. She shared her story in a matter of fact way, yet I knew there were darker details that she didn’t want to share with us.
“Making my husband happy was the only life I knew; I knew to cover my head and cook and that was my life.” Ruksuana told us of a time when she was confined to her home and wasn’t allowed to leave except in emergencies. “I remember praying to God my children would get sick so I could leave the house for a doctor visit.”
When Ruksana’s family was approached by a local artisan co-op to work with them, her husband refused to let her leave the house. Through many conversations, brave women who had already stepped out of their homes were able to convince Ruksana’s husband that she could earn money and help their family.
She stepped out of her cage.
“Today I have an identity and I feel like a bird.”
Freedom. Dignity. Community.
Now Ruksana runs an artisan group for 18 more women. And her song is a strong voice in her community for change. She has raised strong daughters who are social workers, continuing to fight for women’s rights in their community. There are more Ruksanas out there. More women who aren’t allowed to uncover their heads or leave their homes or pursue their dreams.
I saw how my drop of effort, in an ocean of poverty is creating real lasting change with my own eyes. We grabbed each other’s faces and cried and called each other sisters. What they face is still hard, and I promised I would not quit fighting to create a better future for them and their children.
As I flew home, my mind was spinning with ideas! I was ready to fight for these women’s dignity by sharing their stories and create a bigger marketplace for them. I want so desperately for other women to share in Ruksana’s freedom.
Then the panic of pandemic hit the US. And I lost my voice to fear. How could I talk about all I saw and learned in the current crisis? How could cute earrings or ethical leather be relevant?
Now facing ‘social isolation’ from Covid-19, I feel the effects creeping in. While I will never experience isolation on the level these artisans have, I am no stranger to loneliness. My sisters in India reminded me of the universal truth that we all want to be connected. They showed me that fear and isolation take a back seat when we link arms with others and step into our purpose.
My purpose is to be the link between you and artisans like Ruksana. When I gather women here for Noonday trunk shows (virtually right now), we are elevating women around the world. Linking arms through storytelling and shopping ethical fashion couldn’t be MORE relevant than when we are feeling isolated!
I am not just a small drop that is creating an ocean of connection. When I invite others to join me in shopping, hosting or joining my team of ambassadors, together we become this ocean of change.
Thank you Jenn, for sharing a small glimpse into the life of Ruksana, I was deeply moved.
Jenn spent twelve life changing days in India, she walked side by side with local artisans listening to countless stories from woman who are directly impacted from your purchase of Noonday products.
I invite YOU to link hands and help ‘be the change’
I am hosting a virtual Noonday party this Saturday 3/28/20 at 8:30EST via ZOOM. You can see and hear all about her trip while learning about some amazing products available for purchase.
If are interested in joining us, please reach out to me for the invite link. If a live ZOOM meeting is not your thing, but you still want to shop, check out her site here and choose Betsy’s Impact Party at checkout.
You can see more of Jenn on her Instagram page and Facebook page
Sidenote: This amazing mama also did my headshots, check out her photography page.
