Mend is a social enterprise based in Gulu, Uganda and a product line of Invisible Children that aims to better the lives of women directly affected by the Lord's Resistance Army conflict through the facilitation of financial independence.
It employs seamstresses and artisans, many of whom are former abductees. The bags produced by Mend's seamstresses are available through the Invisible Children online store. The initiative also helps fund the work of Invisible Children, a non-profit organization that gained notoriety through the controversy that followed its Kony 2012 campaign in March of the same year.
Contact Information
Mend website
Mend on Facebook
Mend on Twitter
Artisan-Made Canvas Totes
Mend Empowers Women Affected by Conflict in Uganda
Trend Themes
1. Social Enterprise - The trend of social enterprises presents an opportunity for businesses to create sustainable solutions that empower marginalized communities and address social issues.
2. Women Empowerment - The trend of empowering women affected by conflict highlights the potential for businesses to support and uplift women in disadvantaged situations, providing them with financial independence and a path to recovery.
3. Artisan-made Products - The growing trend of artisan-made products allows businesses to tap into the market of conscious consumers who value ethical production processes and support initiatives that create positive social impact.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can explore opportunities to collaborate with social enterprises and artisan groups, creating and promoting products that not only align with sustainable and ethical practices but also support marginalized communities.
2. Non-profit - The non-profit industry can leverage the trend of empowering women affected by conflict by partnering with social enterprises like Mend, providing funding and resources to expand their reach and impact.
3. E-commerce - The e-commerce industry can play a vital role in promoting and selling artisan-made products through online platforms, connecting consumers with unique, ethically crafted goods that support social development projects.