Thirty One Bits

Northern Uganda. We all know this as one of the most dangerous and ruthless war zones in the world.  A war that has lasted over 25+ years and left over 2 million people displaced.  So much loss, so much suffering and so much tragedy you would think that there was no hope left there...just a people of pain. Kallie Doval saw something much different though when she visited the area back in 2007.  She met an inspiring group of women who made the most beautiful paper beads and even more amazing was the sense of hope and purpose that each individual revealed with every spoken word and smile.  Kallie knew right then and there that she was going to come up with a plan of action to help these ladies market and sell their product.  All she needed to do was simply take what was already there and help push it to the next level.  Returning in 2008 with a handful of friends and a business plan, 31 Bits was born and ready to take off.  The company started with a small handful of 6 women who would create the monthly inventory needed for sales.  Now the company employs over 99 women each with "a unique story of suffering that has been overcome with joy and liberation".

Something divine happens when we choose to open our eyes and see beyond the surface and move deeper into the heart and soul of others.  What we will find is that we have a lot more in common with them than we realize. These are women who have seen tremendous horror and experienced some of life's most harsh tragedies, yet possess a desire to rise from the ashes and makes something beautiful of their lives.  I can't help but get a little emotional when I step back and look at just how blessed we really are.  We can become so caught up in the rush of our Westernized lives and materialistic ways that we forget what it's all about.  Their lives are simple yet profound!  They never asked for help or a hand out or expected anyone to make things better for them.  These Ugandan women only want what has been their right to have all along.  The right to provide a good life for their children and a chance to start over.  And now they are.  

Each women signs a 4 year contract to be apart of 31 Bits and during that time they are educated and trained to sustain their own profitable business once released from the program.  Now possessing life skills and a trade combined with the necessary business knowledge, there is no limit as to what they can accomplish for themselves, their families and community.  Orambi Gladies, the Livelihoods Programming Manger has said their main purpose is to "empower the most vulnerable of women"...and 31 Bits has done just that.  

How can  you help? How can you become involved and make a difference?  It's so simple...become a fan of 31 Bits and give back! Every piece in the collections are hand made by a women there in Uganda.  They are the designers....they choose the color palette, size of beads, patterns and length of each piece. Choose your favorite styles...read up on the designer...and make a purchase!  We continue to support and employ these powerful women when we wear our jewelry and share their stories.  

Where can you find 31 Bits?? You can purchase online or for a more up close and personal experience with each design visit ARTIFAKS at 206 S Broad St  Cedar Hill, TX  972-293-6883

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Artifaks/324330820992419?fref=ts

www.31bits.com