In a bid to reduce my plastic waste, I’m trying to cut back completely on using plastic carrier bags. I have several tote and canvas bags that are perfect for shopping.
However when I first saw the bags by the Secret Pillow Project, I knew this was not an ordinary bag. This is a bag that supports and empowers women in India. Intrigued? So was I!
As Secret Projects say themselves, We work with charities and NGOs based in India. These organisations link us to women who want to earn a living but who need help finding those opportunities. The organisations meet with the women, often in community centres, and they create an environment in which the women can meet, sew together and support each other. They are supported with training & development and the ultimate goal is for the women to become financially independent.”
I just love the company’s tagline – Unfolding women’s power in India.
The “makers” as they are known, are provided with all the materials they need to create high quality products. These can be made either at home or in a group setting, whichever they prefer. Secret Projects pays the makers at least twice the minimum wage and the more bags (and other hand crafted items) that are sold, the more women the company can help.
The materials are ethically sourced and as every item is handmade and quality checked, you know the item you will receive will be made to a high standard.
There are plenty of colourful patterns to choose from but I chose the elephant print and now it’s arrived, I’m glad I did. I love it! The bag is well made and robust enough to carry around my food shopping, even tins! The fact it can be folded down is an added bonus and makes it perfect for popping in your handbag, or even for using when travelling.
There’s a variety of items that can be bought from Secret Pillow Project, including clothing and homeware. As with the bags, every item they sell is handmade.
I couldn’t recommend the company enough. From the high quality product to the knowledge you’re helping fellow women learn new skills and become independent. What’s not to love?
To read more about the great products and wonderful work Secret Projects do, please check out their website – https://www.secretprojects.org/
Disclaimer : I was offered a complimentary bag but as always, opinions are my own.
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I love hearing about companies like this! I will definitely check out the Secret Pillow Project!
My friend told me about the secret pillow project. I will share this with her!
I love the look of their products, and I really love that they're doing good in the world. I'll be ordering some things from them for gifts this season.
What an inspiring organisation. The bags are beautiful and even more wonderful to know that buying one will help these ladies in India.
I had not heard about this project. What an amazing initiative. Thanks for sharing
The elephant patterns are so cute and I love how it is handmade, these days there aren't many things are handmade.
Companies like these are wonderful and it would be nice to read that there are more.
This is such a great idea! I love supporting companies like this!
Such a cute bag...I love the project and what it promotes. I've been switching over to canvas bags for a long time now.
Love the design and the concept. Reusable, non-plastic bags are definitely a winning combination!