The Very Beginning Pt. 1

As we’re gearing up for our Gala for Hope(s) this September, I’ve been pulling tons of Elina photos from the CiH archives. Photos of us together over the past 7 YEARS that I’ve known her. And before we look ahead, dreaming together at our Galas, I wanted to share this story, this incredible story of one simple “yes” making ripples throughout entire communities in Zambia. Not really “my” story, but the story that I get to be part of. A gloriously messy, painfully thrilling, hope-filled, risky, adventurous, faith-filled story.

And while this story for me started in the summer of 2010 on that impactful mission trip to Lusaka, Zambia with 23 strangers, we’re going to start this story at the beginning of the launch of CiH in Zambia, July 2012, FIVE YEARS AGO almost exactly.

Part 1

It’s 3:30 in the morning, which should really be called 3:30 at night since no one should ever be awake at that hour. I’m at the Raleigh/Durham airport with my parents, my brother, and my new boyfriend of 3 months (another novel for another day).

We have 4 suitcases packed to the capacity of 23 kgs which is actually 51 pounds, which takes some convincing for the check-in attendants for our airline. I’m wearing my Clothed in Hope logo shirt like a total goober, and have my shiny blue outdoors backpack filled to the brim, or as much as they’ll let me fill it to still be called a carry-on.

The day is here. The day that started as an idea in the fall of 2010, a dream in early 2011, and the next-step over the next couple years as I fundraised and started Clothed in Hope stateside. Logo, website, some funds to get me going, and a few Skype calls with people way more experienced than me who have gone before me on this whole nonprofit/move across the world by yourself thing.

I’m 22 years old, two months graduated from the University of South Carolina, and ready to take on the world. Perhaps the very fact that I’m 22-years-old is a gift in itself, the naivety and boldness that the age brings.

It’s time. Time to jump into what I’ve set out to do, to empower women in Zambia through fashion and business. But first I’ve gotta get myself on the plane. And thankfully I’m not alone.

My big brother, Mark, three years older than me and always way smarter than me, is coming with me to get started for the first two weeks. I definitely don’t realize how much of a gift this is, and instead throw him a few eye rolls when he gets bossy or I get tired/hungry/overwhelmed.

We hug our parents goodbye. I don’t have a return ticket booked yet and even though I consider myself an emotional person, I think I have to make them believe I am strong enough to follow through with what I convinced them I’d be doing. Mom and Dad are brave and even stronger than I pretend to be, hugging their baby girl goodbye and putting her on a plane and life-path to Zambia. Though they expressed their concern in the early days, they kept their reservations to themselves (assuming they’re human and had many) for my protection and out of the largest amounts of love that would take me years to realize.

And then I hug my new boyfriend goodbye. Bless him. He just turned 21 a few weeks before, and we just started dating after I swore off dating for this whole “Africa thing.” Life is funny like that. He’s tired, I’m tired (because it’s 3:30 in the morning), and we have absolutely no idea what we’re doing committing to a new long-distance relationship that stretches past oceans, on different continents and different time zones. We hug, but not for too long as to not freak out my parents and big brother. “See you later.”

This all seems normal, like the rational next step in the process of pursuing this dream. But I fail to recognize the number of people that I’ve taken along with me who aren’t able to jump on this plane with me. Little do I know, every friendship and relationship will change the second I walk through those metal detectors in the airport security line.

And as matter-of-factly as it feels to fly to NYC, we’re off to travel across the globe. To NYC, to London, to Nairobi, to Zimbabwe, and finally to Zambia. Within the span of 30 hours.

Crusty-eyed, greasy-haired, lookin’ a hot mess, we’ve arrived. It’s cold season, but it still feels quite warm in this tiny terminal without any ventilation, nerves through the roof. After being cleared for customs and immigration, we step into the “arrivals” area, merely a room the size of a doctor’s office waiting room.

Our eyes scan for the sign. They’re supposed to be here with a sign, this family who we’ve never met but briefly emailed with who offered their guest room to us strangers. What if this is a scam? What if they’re going to rob us? No time for questions or concerns, we’re here and we need the room they’ve offered. And we find their smiling faces. The mom with four of the cutest little kiddos smiling up at us and holding up our welcome sign. We’re good.

We’ve arrived.

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*Part 2 will be released next Wednesday 6/21. Stay tuned! In the meantime, head over HERE and get yourself a ticket for our Gala for Hope!

Introducing: Limited Release!

We are so excited to announce that starting with our first Limited Release on June 12, our handmade products will be sold in small batches.

 So, what does this mean?

• Each release includes a limited quantity of a brand new product
• Made with fabrics hand-selected in our local Zambian markets
• We will announce a date and time of release so that you can be ready to purchase
• Limited Release products will only be available ONCE (until the small batch is sold out)

Get Ready!
• • • 
The first Limited Release is happening
Monday, June 12 at 9am EST

To shop this fun product, join us on Facebook, Instagram, or find it on our homepage at launch time!

Let's Get Swanky

Hi friends!

Tomorrow the tickets go LIVE for our 2 Gala for Hope events in Columbia, SC and Raleigh, NC this September and we are so excited! 

We're excited to pull that gown out of the back of the closet, dust it off, and get swanky for a night. 

But more than that, we're excited to welcome our Zambia Director to the US for the VERY FIRST TIME in her life!! Elina, one of our very first students turned #girlboss extraordinaire, was approved for a Visitor Visa from the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka, and will get to see what America is all about. 

We started a bucket list with her with food to eat (Chickfila is a given), things to see (the beach being near the top of the list!), but when we asked her what she's most excited about, she said this: 

“I will be so excited to meet with the donors whom God has used to support the program, and our lives have changed through this life skill!”

— Elina

Did y'all catch that?! She is most excited to meet YOU! To hug your neck, to tell you thank you from over 150 of her friends and community members. 

We can't wait for September to get here, and really, really hope you'll join us for these incredibly special evenings of sharing stories of life-change, exchanging thanks, enjoying great eats and great music, and working together to provide this life-changing opportunity to hundreds more women in Zambia. 

Elina has been THE backbone of the organization since we launched in Zambia in 2012. She's fearless, she's determined, she's compassionate, and she's incredibly loving. I consider it an honor to call her my friend and my co-worker. To share her with you makes me so excited, to bring my two worlds together to let that love just explode. 

Elina and I in July 2012, the launch of CiH in Zambia 

Join us friends. 

We can't wait for you to be part of this treat!

With Chikondi,
Amy

Our Favorite Things

Summer is almost upon us, and we thought we’d share some of our favorite products from the Spring/Summer ‘17 line to kick off the season!

First up: Amy's Favorite (Our Founder)
The Regina Earrings

These earrings are so fun! Pair them with a little white dress, and you've got the perfect summer date night outfit.

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Kathy's Favorite (Our Stateside Director)
Francis Shopper Tote

We can't think of anything this bag wouldn't be perfect for when it comes to your weekly to-do list. Groceries, workout clothes, toys for your little one, books for the beach — The Francis Shopper Tote is the perfect summer companion. AND the best part is that you can just roll one (or five) up and keep it in your glove compartment so you're never without one!

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Meredith's Favorite (Our Creative Director)
Rabbecca Bag

The new Rabbecca Bag is such a perfect size — it's so easy to throw into any purse or weekender. I always get a little bit happier when I look into my bag and spot that cheery chitenge pattern!

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Elina's Favorite (Our Zambia Director)
Mini Chikondi Elephant

This guy will always be on our favorites list. And the only thing cuter than a Chikondi Elephant is a MINI Chikondi Elephant (all of the heart eyes)!

Now that we’ve shared our faves, you share yours! We would love to know which CiH products you can’t live without.

Share your favorites using #MyClothedInHopeStyle

Project Runway #2

Last year we started this friendly competition between past + current graduates at our March Graduation. It was such a hit that students asked that we do it again! Here's how it goes: past and current graduates are given 2-4 meters of fabric (or can use their own), and only have 1 week to create a custom design of their own. Then they have to strut their stuff and model it in front of the entire graduation audience! The audience votes for the Top 3 and winners get a cash prize (and bragging rights!). 

These women blow us away. Not only do they rise above oppression and abuse and all things awful to pave a new path for their entire families by learning a skillset, but they also transform into confident, beautiful, incredibly talented designers and seamstresses in the process. It is SO FUN to witness!! Since we didn't have it in the budget to fly all of you over to Zambia to see it for yourselves this past March, here are some of the highlights of Project Runway: Zam Edition...

Precious kicks off the competition with this custom tunic + head wrap, and styles her outfit with black leggings and perfectly matching heels.

Next up: this gorgeous sweetheart neckline dress with an A-line skirt

Bridget reacts to cheers from the crowd with this matching dress, jacket, visor, boots outfit. Such creativity!

Staying on trend with this hi-low hem dress in a gorgeous fabric of her own, with waistline, neckline, and sleeve detailing.

Gladys' head-to-toe ensemble gets quite the reaction from the crowd. Matching purse, a-line dress, and traditional hat in a beautiful traditional chitenge fabric. 

Maureen's final pose... check out that pleating detail on the neckline and hem! Gorgeous.

Doreen goes for the fashion-forward look with a peplum top and matching trousers. We love her matching makeup!

Our only male graduate, Aaron, receives thunderous applause, cheering, and shouting for this incredible chitenge suit, complete with sequin trim and a matching cane + hat combo. 

The Runway show concluded with SO many amazing designs from some ridiculously talented students of ours. But there could only be 3 winners...
Congrats to Bridget (1st place from Kaunda Square), Doreen (2nd place from Kaunda Square), and Precious (3rd place from Ng'ombe)!!

YOU are making this possible. The skill, the passion, the drive, and the dream. Women once discouraged by the hardships they've endured their entire lives are now dreaming big and opening their own tailoring shops featuring amazing custom designs like these. You are investing in the art of fashion design and the heart of rising above in a dignifying way. Thank you, friends. 

With Chikondi (Love),
Amy
CiH Founder & Executive Director

CiH @ USC Fashion Week

Clothed in Hope participated in this year’s annual University of South Carolina Fashion week, hosted by the Fashion Board! The 10th annual event was held March 20-24.

Doors opened at 6 p.m. for the Student Designer Showcase at 701 Whaley on Wednesday, March 22. Before the show guest had time to walk around and shop at vendor tables. We got to set up a table for our merchandise alongside of other local shops and businesses. At 7 p.m. USC student designers presented their work to a panel of judges on a runway. One of the judges was one of our own, Meredith Walker!

It was a lively atmosphere filled with music, photographers and refreshments from a local bakery.
The Finale Show followed on Thursday, March 23. This show featured local boutiques’ and retailers’ spring collections modeled by USC students. In the show we were able to share our newest headbands, handbags, and other accessories.

Fashion Board usually does many philanthropic events for different charities during the year. This year they chose us as the sole partnership! This is huge, as it has provided us with a consistent platform for the Columbia area.

Each night we had multiple volunteers come stand at the booth and talk to the guests about what Clothed in Hope does. We had a lot of fun and are thankful to all who helped us prepare for and work the event. And a huge thank you to USC Fashion Board for your incredible support!

(Article by Haley Babbitt, Photos by Fashion Board at USC)

Meet Megan!

We love introducing you to the folks who make things happen around here! So friends, meet Megan. She started off as an intern with us and is now on our Social Media Team as a student at the University of South Carolina (go Gamecocks!). She's smart, so kind, passionate, and just really great. Here's a little interview with her to get to know her better:

1. How did you learn about Clothed in Hope?
During my freshman year at USC, I heard Amy speak to the retail program. Her excitement and vision for the organization was contagious! I knew I wanted to be involved in Clothed in Hope's mission.

2. If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Apple Pie is one of my favorite foods! Not only is it delicious, but it also makes me think of being surrounded by family during the holidays.

3. What is your favorite CiH product?
I like the twist bracelets because I love layering the pop of color with other neutral, metallic bracelets. 

4.  What is the last book you read?
I enjoy re-reading bits and pieces of the classic books I read in High School. The most recent book I picked up and reread was Pride and Prejudice. 

5. What drew you to join the CiH team?
Fashion is all around us but when it is combined with service it takes on a more important meaning. Fashion becomes a humanitarian mission. I respect the gifts and talents of the Zambian women and admire their trade. Working at Clothed in Hope allows me to support the  Zambian vulnerable women so that they can support their families. 

6. If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would it be?
I would be a peacock. They have fun, colorful feathers and portray a bohemian style. 

7. Tell us one fun fact about yourself.
I used to do Irish Dance. I love the ornate dresses, authentic Irish music, and it is a fun way to exercise.  

(Photos by Rachael Foster Photography)

We've Moved!

I received an urgent call from our ladies a few weeks back. The current landlord at our Kaunda Square facility was bullying our ladies. The "Mama Bear" in me asked lots of questions to figure out what was happening. And it wasn't good. The landlord took advantage of the women - and their lack of voice in society - and started using their property as storage for his house. Sounds crazy, right? Imagine this: the entire yard was filled with his belongings and building materials for his own home renovation. He tore down a part of our concrete wall to make more room for his things - exposing our facility to everyone around and putting our women at risk. He instructed his workers to come and go freely into that property, so women would often be the first to walk into the sewing training facility to find that they weren't the first inside. Some strange men were already there collecting and delivering this landlord's items for him. 

To put it plainly, this Mama Bear wasn't happy. Our ladies were being taken advantage of simply because they were women. But they knew things weren't right. That's why they called. 

Without any legal options to keep this man from abusing our rent money and taking our facility from us even as we were paying for it, we took the situation into our own hands. No longer will the women of Kaunda Square believe that they can be preyed upon because they are women. 

So this Mama Bear told the ladies to move. Get the heck outta there. For their safety, for the safety of our staff and equipment, and to find a place that wouldn't abuse and take our money - your money. 

The ladies of Kaunda Square scoured the entire compound and had just days to do so. The next rent payment was due, and there was no way that it was going to that corrupt landlord. So they found this amazing facility. Gated, secure, with a huge yard, so many rooms, much bigger than the already-cramped facility we were currently renting. As if that wasn't amazing enough - it has running water with a sink, toilet and shower, which is like striking gold in a compound. It also has electricity. What a gem they found! 

It was also the only other facility that was big enough to hold the 20+ students in the Kaunda Square class that was available ASAP. 

Here's the catch. It is $100/month more. Instead of $150/month, it's $250/month. And while that may not seem like much (and it sure sounded like a deal to me!), it's money that wasn't budged for or anticipated. 

I think we can handle it - you and me. What if just 10 people sign up to give $10/month to cover this facility that gives these women safety, a few luxuries, and room to grow? Our ladies deserve that, right? 

Just 10 of you to sign up for the amount of a Netflix subscription to give 20 women every year the opportunity to experience life-change through skills-training education. Can we do that together, friends? 

Sign up with the button below. And here are a few pics from move-in day in our new Kaunda Square facility with women already hard at work on their custom outfits for their Graduation Day coming up soon!

Let's do this. 
With Chikondi (Love),
Amy/CiH Mama Bear

Women from Kaunda Square thank you for their new training facility. "As you can see, it's very big! It's nice! Well kept!" We need an additional $100/month to cover this unexpected move and increase in rent as a result. Give $10/month to keep our ladies in the facility that they love. www.clothedinhope.org/hopeclub

Feel the Love

Happy February, friends!

We hope it's obvious by now that we love you a lot. And we love women in Zambia a lot. So what better way to celebrate the season of LOVE by spreading both messages at the same time?!

When you purchase an item (ON SALE) from our Curated Valentine's Collection, YOU are telling a woman in Zambia that she is deeply, richly loved. That she matters so much to this world. And, of course, you're telling the person you're giving the gift to - your wife, sister, mother, best friend, yourself - how much they're loved too. It's just a win-win!

Here's a sneak peek of a few items from our Curated Valentine's Collection. Order from this Collection before February 14th, and all items featured will be 25% off with code: FEELTHELOVE. You can shop it HERE!

With So Much Chikondi (Love),
Amy + the CiH Team

Christmas Party!

Every year we throw a Christmas Party for our ladies in Zambia. This year, with our new location in Kaunda Square compound and formalized program in Muchochoma Village, we had 3 Christmas Parties to throw! And from the reports of our ZamStaff, they were the best ever. 

Over 250 women and children attended these 3 parties, decked out in their favorite outfits - many women rocking custom designs that they've made - and ready to celebrate. We bussed a sound system out to Muchochoma Village, so everyone would get to enjoy an awesome dance party, even the folks 3 hours outside the big city. And the kids' favorite part - the food. We always go all out for our Christmas feasts, and this year was no exception. We served beans, rice, chicken, potato wedges (learned in our baking class!), greens, Fantas, Cokes, scones, and more! Many women cannot afford to eat chicken but once or twice per year, especially those out in the Village, so this was quite a treat for everyone! 

After the bellies were filled, more dancing, more singing, more laughing. And the women ended the party with a gift exchange they created and named "Secret Friend." We just love it so much. Women now have enough money, after providing everything needed for their children and home life and businesses to thrive, to participate in a gift exchange. It may not seem like a big deal to many of us, but it is!! A disposable income to enjoy gift giving, amazing. Women gave irons, fabric, kitchen accessories, pots, food, even cash. It's safe to say that this tradition will definitely be included in our Christmas Parties for years to come. 

Thank you for making it possible for our friends in Zambia to gather together with their children to celebrate Christmas as a big, happy CiH family. We just wish you could've been there, too! But until then, enjoy these photos from the fun parties, taken by our amazing ZamStaff who pulled it all off:

Abundantly MORE!

This year-end giving campaign brought us to tears. 

Tears of surprise, joy, humility, and gratitude. 

You all didn't just give 18k by New Year's Day... You gave $31,006!!!! 
Abundantly more than we could ask for or imagine. A huge and incredible gift. 
 

Here's a little note from our founder, Amy Bardi

"What a gift that so many of you would choose to partner with us in changing the lives of women in Zambia. What a gift that you'd choose to step into stories of oppression and abuse and neglect, and bring the light to these dark places with your dollars and hearts. What a gift to walk this road hand in hand with the very best CiH family I could ever ask for or imagine. 

Thank you friends, from the deepest parts of my soul. Thank you for bringing about a MIRACLE this year. 

And because of this- we will get to do SO MUCH MORE in 2017 in the lives of the vulnerable and the brokenhearted. Praying you feel all the blessings and joy of this exciting news, and as you follow along with us in 2017 that you will continue to be encouraged by the difference you're making. Zikomo kwambili."

Because you blew this goal out of the water, we're going to be able to open our FOURTH training center location in mid-2017. All because you showed up and gave so generously. YOU are making this possible. 

Thank you so much from all of us at CiH! Happiest New Year to you and yours!

We Need YOU...

Friend, we need YOU!
We are just $3,036 away from our goal! 

$3,036 away from giving 15 vulnerable women the opportunity to change their lives and lift themselves out of poverty through sewing and business training. 

$3,036 away from altering the path of families in poverty, creating a ripple effect of HOPE and prosperity for generations to come. 

Maybe you can't afford to give $3,036. And we totally get that. But would you give $100? $25? So far 72 people have joined this campaign to give HOPE in 2017, and we want you to be the 73rd.

We promise you won't regret being part of this story. Join us today. 

With Chikondi (Love),
Amy Bardi
CiH Founder & Executive Director

Maureen's Story

Maureen is a mother of 5 children whose ages range from 3 to 19 years old. She joined our program in September 2013, as part of our second group in our life-skills training program in the Ng'ombe Compound. Maureen lives in the compound, which is home to around 120,000 people living in 2 square miles. 

Maureen has a smile that lights up the room. But that smile took a long time to show itself, due to the hardships Maureen carried into our classroom. She faced difficulties at home in her marriage, financial difficulties, and her family would often find themselves without enough food to eat. 

Maureen was a quick learner, and she even brought a Jewelry Making skill to our ladies that she shared generously. She graduated, receiving her Diploma in September 2014, and what a happy day that was!

Maureen applied for our first round of microloans soon after. With the funds, she purchased chitenge fabric to make garments for customers nearby. Maureen learned from our classes, and chose to reinvest the profits from her business to see her businesses grow. With hard work and determination, Maureen saved up enough money to open 2 shops in the Ng'ombe Compound: a tailoring stand and a restaurant. These opened in February 2015, and offer customers custom outfits, rice, tea, and other goods. 

It doesn't stop there. Maureen has just raised enough money to send her oldest son to university. He will begin his education in the next few months. Maureen even opened a bank account with a local bank to keep saving, depositing her profits, to see her business and family thrive. 

For us at Clothed in Hope, this is the dream. We equip women with the skills they need to start and run a small business independent of us. While we love the products they design and make with us, we love even more that they are thriving on their own. Maureen took the skills, knowledge, and opportunity, and now has the pride and confidence of providing for her family and watching them thrive. She's doing it on her own - the best solution for Maureen's family, and for her entire community. This entrepreneur is unstoppable!

Where Are They Now: Jessy's Story

The story below is pulled from our first installment of "Where Are They Now?" as part of our 2016 Giving Campaign. You can find photos and supplementary material here.

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Jessy is one entrepreneurial woman. 

A mother of 5 and grandmother of 6 children, she joined our program in 2012 with the very first group to complete our skills-training program. Jessy appeared to be shy and timid, but we now know her to be a woman of less words spoken because of the many thoughts she's constantly entertaining in her mind - she's brilliant. 

After graduating with excellent sewing skills, Jessy hit the ground running with her business endeavors, despite the cultural hardship of having been left by her husband and enduring the loss of all of her siblings. Jessy applied for our first microloan cycle, was approved, and passed the difficult exam required to receive the microloan funds. With that money, she bought a sewing machine to begin her tailoring business. 

Now, four years later, Jessy has greatly expanded her business to include brickmaking, renting out an addition she built on her home with business profits, and renting out a small salon and boutique that doubles as her retail space for her skirt and dress designs. 

Jessy has diversified her business plan to ensure that she will always be able to turn a profit and further the success of her family. Jessy is looking for colleges for her youngest children, a rarity when most children do not complete secondary school. She purchased a new stove and fridge to introduce better foods into the family diet. 

She is flourishing as a businesswoman, mother, grandmother, and staff member of Clothed in Hope. And is if that's not enough, Jessy even gave up a room in her home to a woman with HIV/AIDS who was rejected by everyone else in the community. 

Jessy is now thriving, and makes sure others around her are too. Her success is her community's success, and we are so proud to know her. 

Graduation Day: October

7 women. Starting a new chapter of life. That's what happened a few weeks back when I was visiting our program in Zambia. We celebrated the Graduation Day for 7 women who worked to hard to ALL receive Diplomas in Sewing & Entrepreneurship. I watched on from our Staff Table as the proud Mama Amy to all of the women in the audience. Instead of listening to me ramble on about all of my feelings on that day (which I could do forever!), here's a little photo story from our most recent Graduation Day:

Our Emcee (in blue) was a student from our Kaunda Square location. Next to her in a custom & handmade outfit is our beloved In-Country Director, Elina. 
And pictured behind them is our new generator!! Made possible during our last sewing machine campaign and that helped give us sound and music for the fun day. 

After a little word of encouragement from the Emcee, we all enjoyed a snack: Fanta + homemade chocolate chip scones made by our Baking Instructor, Margret. Delish!

Women from all classes, previous and current, came to support the women graduating. This beautiful woman is from our newest House of Moses partnership class. 

And new babies get to meet the rest of the ever-growing CiH family, like Patricia's baby girl, Blessing.

We take a break after each segment of the Graduation program to do what we love most- DANCE!

Skits were presented and then kind words were spoken over our Graduating Class, these women pictured here. Each graduate gets 4 yards of fabric to design and make her own graduation outfit that expresses her style and talent. One of our favorite parts of the whole day is seeing our graduates when they arrive!

Then the presentation of Diplomas. And lots of hugs and smiles. These women worked so hard for the past 12 months, passed multiple examinations, and defeated all opposition around them that told them they couldn't do it. Most of the graduates were recognized for the first time in their entire lives. 

On the far left is Mrs. Mulenga, our Lead Instructor. Next to her is Elina, In-Country Director. And on the far right- me! Wearing a custom chitenge suit made for me by Elina. 

So many hugs for the woman who taught each and every student- Mrs. Mulenga.
So much love!

I got to speak truth and encouragement over all of my "babies" as their Mama Amy. A joy to share with these women that they are loved, that they matter to the world, that they are all uniquely perfect exactly as they are. 

Presenting the 7 Graduates of the Class of October 2016!!

After the ceremony concluded, everyone wanted their turn at a fun photo. I print all of these photos and give them to each person when I go to Zambia. For many of them, it's one of the only photos they have of themselves. 

Graduates can bring their children or family members to share in this special day. Even more special is that these girls now have the memory of their mother achieving such an amazing accomplishment. We can't wait to see the impact this day has on these young lives years down the road. What an amazing example this brave, beautiful, hardworking mama has set for her girls!

More fun family photos to celebrate such a joyous day!

The next generation of Clothed in Hope. This little world changer. 

And last but never least- the peanut butter to my jelly. The nshima to my relish. The salt to my pepper. The most amazing woman, Elina. Clothed in Hope wouldn't be what it is today without her and we love her!!

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Sometimes I cringe when I hear the words "changing lives" because that seems like such a bold claim. But on Graduation Days like this one in early October, I know it's true. Clothed in Hope is changing the lives of women in Zambia. A bold statement, but a true one. From despair to hope. Mourning to gladness. So much joy, so much confidence, and so much capability. The sky is truly the limit for these incredible women who have chosen HOPE despite the challenges and oppression all around them. 

And who's helping to change those lives? YOU. If you are a HOPE Club supporter, donor, customer, advocate, you made this happen, and you continue to make this happen. We celebrate with you and are so thankful for you! 

If you want to be part of this goodness, there's no better time than now to join!

With Chikondi,
Amy + the CiH team

Summer Fun

“She wore wildflowers in her hair and joy in her heart”

Turban Headband in Tie Dye

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“Today is the perfect day to be happy”

Margret Necklace in Yellow

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Village Twist Bracelets

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“Throw kindness around like confetti.”

Grace Clutch in Springtime

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“Life is the flower for which love is the honey”

— Victor Hugo

Martha Napkins in Flower Power

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“Always stay humble and kind.”

Knot Bracelet in Navy Dot

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Happy Last Month of Summer! Save 25% off your purchase with code: LASTDAYS

Chicken & Waffles for HOPE Recap

On July 14th we had our first Raleigh, NC event! Chicken & Waffles for HOPE was exactly what it sounds like: a Chicken & Waffles dinner with a Silent Auction and live music. And it was a blast!

We met so many new folks and were able to share our story with them. Our fundraising goal was $1,000 for this first-time event, and we made over $3,600!! Such an encouraging turn-out as people are joining our CiH family to give HOPE to women in Zambia. Our fabulous Raleigh Summer Interns put this event together in just over one month- aren't they incredible?!

Enjoy some photos from this fun-filled evening! But first, a huge thanks to the following sponsors for Chicken & Waffles for HOPE:

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HUGE thanks to Jordan Williams for sharing his amazing musical talent with us!

Cooked-to-order waffles, courtesy of Lighthouse Recruiting, LLC employees who graciously volunteered

Just one of our 26 incredible Silent Auction items- all generously donated by our sponsors

Thanks so much to Lighthouse Recruiting, LLC for providing the man/womanpower to pull of this event for us!

And to all who attended this event and had a blast with us, THANK YOU! It's events like these that provide the funds we need to provide educational opportunities to women in Zambia. Y'all are the best.

With Chikondi,
Amy

Meet Deja

Deja is the Summer 2016 Intern for Meredith, our Creative Director. Deja is based in Columbia, SC, and has been a huge asset to our team in the short months that she's been with us! 

Meet Deja!

1.    How did you learn about CiH? 
I learned about CiH from my Principles of Fashion Merchandising class. My teacher Dr. Boggs, informed us of CiH’s Spring 2016 launch party and how Amy, the founder went to USC. I was instantly inspired and wanted to get involved!
 
2.    If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
I would definitely say pizza! I’ve experimented with so many different toppings and sauces that the options are endless and I never get bored!

3.    What is your favorite CiH product?
The Village Twist Bracelets, there’s so many options for more than one and they add a simple chic vibe!

4.    What is the last book you read?
“Purpose Awakening” - Toure Roberts, this book is religion based on how God has an epic purpose for everyone. It’s very encouraging and uplifting! 

5.    What drew you to join the CiH team?
CiH’s purpose is beautiful and inspiring. I love empowering women instead of breaking them down because our world can be cruel. Amy and her company falls right under breaking this cycle. I also wanted to be apart of something bigger than I am!

6.    If you had to describe yourself as an animal what would it be?
I would say a cat. At times I can be aloof and want to be left alone but at the end of the day I just want your love. Haha

7.    Name one fun fact about yourself.
I am a plant-based vegan! I’ve been vegan for 6 months and it has been the best decision I’ve made for my health! 

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CiH isn't just about what women in Zambia are doing. It's about connecting cultures and working together to empower women of the world through HOPE. If you're interested in being a part of this goodness, Contact Us. 

Meet the Summer Interns

Hi friends!

Allow me to introduce myself, Ashley, along with my fellow intern, Corinne. I am excited and feel privileged to announce that Amy has brought us onto the CiH team in Raleigh, NC as interns for the summer.  Currently we are both students at North Carolina State University studying Fashion and Textile Management.  Corinne and I are excited about our summer internship with CiH to learn more about the organization and how CiH works to support the amazing women in Zambia. 

So we are not strangers, here is a little more about Corinne and myself:

It's me, Ashley!

And here's Corinne!

1. How did you learn about CiH? 
Ashley: I learned about CiH after meeting Amy, the founder of CiH, when she came and spoke to my entrepreneur class about how she started her organization. She explained the struggles and successes of running a non-profit, and the feeling of happiness as she watched the women grow into successful entrepreneurs.
Corinne: I learned about CiH after a friend of mine liked the organization on Facebook. Being interested in fair trade, I looked into CiH and contacted Amy after reading how she started the company and each woman’s story of HOPE.

2. If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
Ashley: I am addicted to chocolate chips, so it only makes sense that I would love to eat chocolate chip pancakes for eternity.
Corinne: If I could eat one meal for the rest of my life, I would eat macaroni and cheese. 

3. What is your favorite CiH product?
Ashley: I am torn between the Chikondi Elephant, or the Eddington Bow Tie for my favorite product; I love them both.
Corinne: My favorite product is the Turban Headband.

4. What is the last book you read?
Ashley: I recently finsihed reading Fire Yourself by Willy Stewart.
Corinne: The last book I read was Love Does by Bob Goff.

5. What drew you to join the CiH team?
Ashley: The CiH team offered more than experience in the fashion and business world, it offered the opportunity to empower other women while learning life skills, and support the community’s development both here in the States and in Zambia.
Corinne: The stories of HOPE embodied my passion for fashion and women’s empowerment. Each story demonstrates an incredible drive that inspires me, and I wanted to be a part of writing these stories of HOPE.

6. If you had to describe yourself as an animal what would it be?
Ashley: I would describe myself as a dog, devoted, impatient, protective, and cheerful. The greatest compliment I could receive is, I resemble my dog. My German Shepherd, Abu, is always smiling, eager to learn, but would not take kindly to anyone who tried to harm his family.
Corinne: If I had to describe myself as an animal, I would be a cat. Initially, cats can be standoffish,but once they get to know you, cats are the most loyal best friend you can have. I can be quiet when I first meet you because I am trying to take in as much information as possible; however, once I really get to know someone, I am extremely loyal.

7. Name one fun fact about yourself.
Ashley: I have lived in more than 18 different cities in my life.
Corinne: I am irrationally and totally scared of balloons.

Me, Ashley, with my dog, Abu

Corinne being adventurous in South Africa

Holiday in the Village

A few weeks have passed since the Easter holiday, well maybe a few months, but the memories are stronger than ever from this fun-filled day with our friends in Muchochoma Village. 

On Good Friday, we packed out a Zambian mini bus with over a dozen Lusaka ladies, clean drinking water, vegetables, and even live chickens. It was the day for a party with the women in Muchochoma Village who are part of our program out there, a 3-hour drive from the Chikondi Community Center. 

This was to be our first in-person look at the new facility we built there, the new home of HOPE in this remote village. This trip also served to celebrate the holiday, obviously, and to get to know the new group of women enrolling in the second class in the village. Exciting times, friends!

Before I blab on and on about how fun this day was, I’ll just show you photos instead. Enjoy a glimpse into our Holiday in the Village

This blurry selfie doesn't even do this justice. Friends, we were packed to.the.gills in this Zambian minibus.

Three hours later, we pulled up to this BEAUTIFUL new Chikondi Community Center in Muchochoma Village, made possible by our amazing supporters/donors.

Inside, Lusaka ladies mingled with Village ladies, and we all admired the graduation test pieces adorning the walls. 

This is Precious' display of her graduation testing garments. Each woman made these without electricity, without a fancy machine, many of them stitching garments entirely by hand without patterns. Incredible stuff right there. 

Cecelia, now a graduate of the Village group, prepared a HUGE pot of nshima for all 30+ of us to enjoy for our holiday feast! This took her around 2 hours to prepare, using trees as firewood. 

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Muchochoma, oldest woman in Muchochoma Village at 55 years old, hand-sewed some product samples outside.

New students posed for their registration photos. Psst: their class is needing some new HOPE Club folks to support their 12-month training... is it going to be you?!

We all admired the new crop of sweet potatoes being grown in the village, made possible by Village Twist Bracelet sales for women to buy seed and fertilizer. 

And no holiday is complete without some family photos to remember the day (and these gorgeous handmade outfits!).