UNITE is a social organization that raises money to support their work in advancing women's health, education and microfinance programs throughout Tanzania through its philanthropic online store. UNITE has a view to being a portal of service in which each individual can become a part of the solution, an important ideal of social enterprise.
UNITE seeks to provide a platform in Africa in the hopes of enabling "impactful connections," identifying and partnering with local grassroots initiatives and "small-yet-exceptional" non-governmental organizations who are working to create positive change but need support from the West.
Founded in 2010, UNITE's Ashe Collection is a line that showcases unique African artistry and a product of a partnership with Milk Sono. The Ashe Collection is comprised of jewelry and accessories including bags, belts and shoes. UNITE also organizes humanitarian outreach tours to Africa with several exciting volunteer-tourism opportunities.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Philanthropic Online Platforms
- Providing a platform for philanthropic online stores in Africa with unique product lines supports the growth of microfinance programs, entrepreneurship, and small-yet-exceptional NGOs.
- Impactful Connections
- Connecting local grassroots initiatives with philanthropic Westerners creates mutual growth opportunities and builds bridges between international communities.
- Volunteer Tourism Opportunities
- Providing volunteer tourism opportunities with a philanthropic mission diversifies revenue streams and builds interest around social enterprise initiatives.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Social Enterprise
- The Ashe Collection by UNITE creates unique partnerships and lending opportunities for African artisans to expand their businesses and product lines.
- E-commerce
- Providing an online store for local African artisans and entrepreneurs creates an e-commerce space for unique products and revenue opportunities to support microfinance programs.
- Non-profits
- Partnering with small but impactful NGO's, UNITE creates a bridge between international philanthropists and local initiatives that can create positive change.
