The Very Beginning Pt. 4
We learned that we could eat dinner for less than $1 if we bought day-old scones at the grocery store and dipped them in our jar of peanut butter. We learned that Coca-Cola is cheaper than water, but probably won’t make you feel good if it’s all you drink. We learned how to say hello, how are you, and see you tomorrow in Nyanja. And we also learned that we could really get on each other’s nerves.
If you are just now joining us for this fun blog series, you'll want to start HERE at the very beginning of The Very Beginning.
Mark leaves tomorrow. We have been killin’ it with all that we’ve been able to get done right out of the gate like this. We bought sewing machines downtown, another memorable experience. They shoved these giant manual machines into cars smaller than Corollas and drove them to the edge of the Ng’ombe Compound. And then some random guy came out to CARRY THEM ON HIS SHOULDER to Elina’s house where we’d begin our training. We know why he was so generous to help, so we tipped him a couple dollars for his hard work and he was thrilled.
The Joanne Fabrics of Lusaka, Zambia
Our first five ladies learned how to make fabric flowers with a needle and thread. Mark presented on marketing and business practices from his wealth of knowledge. We established group rules, brought a few other ladies into the group, gathered photos and some stories, and started the ladies on the manual sewing machines.
Jessy learning how to use the manual sewing machines
The days felt long but went by so fast with Mark by my side. They were full and rich and challenging and joyful, and we were getting in a really good groove.
We took a taxi (that was recommended to us) three hours outside of the city to a national park with roads rougher than we or the taxi driver knew possible. After bottoming out several times and wondering if we’d ever make it in one piece, we arrived for our debrief and rest safari after two weeks of nonstop activity.
And here we are back in Lusaka. Mark’s packing up. We’ve never spent this much time together, all day everyday, in our entire lives. We learned that we could eat dinner for less than $1 if we bought day-old scones at the grocery store and dipped them in our jar of peanut butter. We learned that Coca-Cola is cheaper than water, but probably won’t make you feel good if it’s all you drink. We learned how to say hello, how are you, and see you tomorrow in Nyanja. And we also learned that we could really get on each other’s nerves.
A part of me is excited to send Mark back to America. I think I’m ready to do this thing on my own now (another “haha” moment, five years later).
When Mark leaves tomorrow, I’ll be moving out of this family’s house and into my own place. I think I can handle living on my own in the middle of a brand new country that I still don’t really know. Right?
Part 5 is a wild one & launches 7/12
Time is running out to get your Gala for Hope tickets! Grab yours TODAY to be sure to make it for this amazing event! Elina is coming to America for the very first time to share her story with you, and it's an incredible one you won't want to miss. Go HERE to get your tickets.
The Very Beginning Pt. 3
Mark and I just look at each other and utilize our nonverbal sibling communication skills. He’s squirming, I’m squirming. Please just let us type this five-page document to get us out of here sometime today. But we trust, we let him do his thing, and meanwhile I’m going weak in the knees as the day heats up and the cow tongue smell becomes especially pungent in this dark, cramped, busy market stall.
If you are just now joining us for this fun blog series, you'll want to start HERE at the very beginning of The Very Beginning.
We wake up early to the sounds of screams and giggles of the kids running through the house. I think we’ve missed breakfast, so we dive back into the Clif bar stash. I never knew that mushy brown bars could be so life-giving.
Afternoons in cold season may feel warm with the bright sun, but mornings are cold. Like shivering cold. Houses don’t have insulation; so all-night we felt the chilly wind whip through the glass slat windows. And for a girl who enjoys 80 degrees at bedtime, this is a challenge. I wake up still tired from stirring in the cold, only to find out that there is only cold water in the tap. The expert would’ve already tested the water to figure out the best time to bathe. But day three into my baby powder hair treatment, coated in the dust from the walk the day before, I have no other options. A true amateur.
So I’m quickly introduced to the bucket bath with cold water in a cold tile bathroom. I don’t even think about how much of a gift it is that water even comes out of the tap, and instead am shrieking at Mark to take pity on me as he enjoys his own Clif bar breakfast in the other room.
Here’s the technique: use your hands as a scooper and strategically position your head over the tub so that when the water hits your hair, not even a drop of its ice-coldness will touch your body. AND GO FAST. The body can just be washed down real fast and touch ups made with baby wipes that I packed last-minute. I just accept the reality that I will never be as clean as I hope to be, and move on with the day. And also scour the aisles of the grocery store later on to find all of the baby powder to keep myself from having to endure that cold water torture every morning.
Ok here we go. Hair is half greasy, half wet, all cold. I’ve got my linen pants on (that I thought were required to be an American living in Zambia - joke’s on me), ready to face the paperwork day.
We meet Elina at the bus stop at 8am. The office opens at 8 and we have to get a good start on the process. I’m thinking that we’ll easily be done by lunchtime, and start looking around for lunch options on our bus ride, as I’m practically sitting in the lap of the strange man sitting next to me so that all of us will fit in the bus as the “conductor” instructs. But you can’t beat it for 20 cents. Watching my tall brother fit himself in one of those buses shows that he’s got skills that would win any game of Twister. Just sayin’.
We’re here. Standing in a surprisingly organized line at the office where we’ll register as an official Zambian charity. Elina and her friend take the lead on this, and I couldn’t be more thankful for them in these moments. They return and inform us that we have the forms! Yay! But they must be filled out by TYPEWRITER. I repeat, typewriter, like in the olden days, y’all.
The only place they know to go find a typewriter? City Market. The market of all markets, one of the busiest, craziest places in the entire city of Lusaka. During my trip in 2010, I went here with a male leader and some guys from my group, and a man asked them how much it would cost to buy me. Real talk.
Needless to say, I’m definitely not pumped to be going here. But we have to. We jump in another bus, walk over streams of litter, and join a huge mass of people heading to City Market, senses working overtime.
We pass the stalls of fabric, secondhand shoes, counterfeit soccer jerseys, fake Barbie dolls from China, plastic hair clips, and are just a couple rows from the typewriter man.
The row that’s between this typewriter and us is enough to send me back to America, but I’m with Mark and have to pretend to be brave and power through. A table stretching 15+ feet is covered in animal parts for sale. Cow tongues. Brains. Eyeballs. Entire heads. Feet. All bloody and smelly and fly-infested. If I had more food in my stomach than a little Clif bar, I would lose it right here and now.
Sure enough, catty-corner to the animal parts table, cow tongues still visible, we’ve arrived at the typewriter. Phew. Let’s just get this over with and head back to the registration office, please. We hand our document to the typewriter man, and quickly learn that we won’t be leaving any time soon. He’s a hunt-and-peck guy. With potentially failing eyesight. And when he hits the wrong letter, the whole document has to come out, apply white out, and re-insert the document after it dries for a few minutes.
Mark and I just look at each other and utilize our nonverbal sibling communication skills. He’s squirming, I’m squirming. Please just let us type this five-page document to get us out of here sometime today. But we trust, we let him do his thing, and meanwhile I’m going weak in the knees as the day heats up and the cow tongue smell becomes especially pungent in this dark, cramped, busy market stall.
It’s as if we keep getting these “outs” to tap out of this whole Zambia thing and just return back to the land of familiarity. But nope. Can’t no cow tongues or brains or eyeballs or flys nesting in said cow parts keep me from empowering Zambian ladies.
Fast-forward a few hours, more buses, probably 20,000+ steps clocked into our imaginary Fitbits, and our paperwork is miraculously submitted. A few days later, APPROVED!!
We giggle about the cow tongues for days, and now after the end of it, I feel like the female version of Indiana Jones, ready to take on the world (“haha” –me 5 years later).
Part 4 (it's about to get crazy) launches 7/5
If you live anywhere in NC or SC, you won't want to miss this! Elina is coming from Zambia to share her story of how YOU have helped change her life and so many others! We have some special surprises planned for each location, so make sure you get your ticket before they sell out!
The Very Beginning Pt. 2
Mark and I say few words to each other. We’re just soaking it up. It’s not my first time here, but it’s still a lot to take in. And yet somewhere in the midst of all the hustle and bustle and new sights, it has this strange feeling of home.
This is Part 2 of our blog series "The Very Beginning" written by Amy about her experience during our Zambia program launch in July 2012. If you haven't read Part 1, you'll want to start HERE.
We hop in the van and are on our way, all luggage miraculously in tow. While we don’t know what day or time it is, we do know we’re not in Kansas (or North Carolina) anymore. Cars flying by at unreal speeds and maneuvers. Check-points, at which the kids say police are checking for monkeys under the car, which will take me months to realize isn’t true, because there aren’t monkeys in the city, whoops. The smell of burning trash and grass in dry season. The dusty air. The streets filled with pedestrians walking to work, home from work, to the bus station, everywhere. The roadside stands of tomatoes and lollipops and laundry soap. We’re here. Lusaka. Home.
We pull up at the American family’s house in a quiet residential area within walking distance to a brand new grocery store (jackpot). Two giant dogs greet us, which we quickly learn serve a greater purpose than just a pet. “Make sure they smell you first.” … Or what? We quickly learn that we’ve gotta make friends with these pups since we’ll be coming and going on our own.
Their 2-story house (a rarity in Zambia) sits at the end of a road, behind a concrete wall and iron gate (a commonality for homes). The grass is green and lush, trees towering high, and it feels like a retreat.
This gracious family has agreed to host us strangers for 2 weeks, sight unseen, because they’re best friends with a couple who I Skyped with who are living in rural Zambia. The missionary/expat connections seem to work like this here. Loyal, tight, extremely helpful, and in this thing together.
Mark and I are led to the guest room with a bathroom attached, and within minutes it feels like we’re part of the family. And while we want to hang out and settle in, we’ve got work to do.
But first, naps. Jet lag recovery. And by day 2, we’re ready to get going.
We suit up with our backpacks, notebooks, a couple of Clif bars, and hit the road. We walk up the long road to the main road, and we’re greeted by other children walking to school, adults walking to where they need to be. Ok, we can do this.
A 30-minute walk leads us to the Ng’ombe Compound, a densely populated urban area. Around 120,000 people in 2 square miles. The scenery changes from paved roads to dirt roads, from greenery to dusty brown landscape only briefly visible between concrete block houses packed tightly together. There are children everywhere, running, playing, adventuring, many without parents in sight. And while there’s a new fancy grocery store just down the road, Ng’ombe seems to have it all at the main market that we walk through. Stalls crafted with wood scraps and cardboard adorned with the brightest red tomatoes, green peppers, leafy greens, bright yellow bananas, brilliant oranges, all perfectly arranged in towers and stacks for customers to peruse.
It’s noisy, with mini buses zooming by, packed to capacity, which is twice the number of people you’d normally fit into a little van like these. Music blaring from bars lining the main dirt road, from hardware shops and barber shops.
Mark and I say few words to each other. We’re just soaking it up. It’s not my first time here, but it’s still a lot to take in. And yet somewhere in the midst of all the hustle and bustle and new sights, it has this strange feeling of home.
Elina, a woman in her mid-forties, a good foot shorter than my super tall brother, emerges from her home. A huge smile, a wave, and a giant hug for each of us. We’re home, and she’s family.
I had been in contact with Elina since 2010. She just happened to be the only Zambian woman I met who lived in Ng’ombe and had an email address, so we were in contact by default (or by fate). Her heart was to see the women in her community empowered, and she was already taking orphans into her home, treating them as her own children. It was apparent from the beginning of our friendship that this woman is really, really special. She fights oppression, she advocates on behalf of the vulnerable, even being vulnerable and oppressed at times of her own life. Her story is hers to tell, but it’s an amazing one as I’d learn over the coming days, weeks, years.
Elina brings us into her home and all of the kids are there, all 6 of them, and even 4 or so others who are staying there temporarily or permanently. Shyness quickly fades with tickles and giggles, the universal language of friendship for kiddos. We’re ready to dig into our Clif bar stash when Elina’s daughter appears with bright plates filled with traditional Zambian foods.
We are still navigating this new friendship and we want to do everything to gain trust and be respectful, so we dig in. Nshima, beans, and a leafy green called rape. I’m still jetlagged and not as jazzed about trying new foods, so I pick at mine and quickly dump it on Mark’s plate during the few seconds we’re in the room alone. Just like the annoying little sister that I am. Mark, now stuck with pounds of food, cleans his plate with the same discipline as the guys on the Nathan’s hot dog eating contest.
Pretending to eat all of my food. Sorry, Mark!
Don’t get me wrong - the food was amazing. Just incredibly filling when you’re still jet lagged and used to only eating rolls with butter for the last two days straight on airplanes and at odd hours of the night that feel like daytime.
We wrap up the day, Mark eager to get home with the nshima-induced food coma and my jet lag screaming out for a nap, and make plans to get the ball rolling tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be paperwork day. How difficult can that be?
Part 3 will be posted next Wednesday 6/28 so stay tuned!
**This month we had 3 HOPE Club Campaigners + Members cancel their sponsorship for personal reasons of their own, which left a bit of a gap in our income! Would YOU consider signing up for the HOPE Club to keep our program running smoothly? We rely heavily on our HOPE Club family to fund our Zambia operations, and can't do what we do without your partnership. You can sign up HERE.
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.
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.
*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.
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
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.
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!”
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...
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.
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!
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!
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
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...
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.
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...
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!
Our landlord thought he could take advantage of our women. We said no way. We packed our bags and moved out of there into a new Kaunda Square facility. We need YOUR help to fund this unexpected change. Just 10 of you to give $10/month will give our ladies safety, running water, electricity, and the message that injustice will not prevail.
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
Feel the Love
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!
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.
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.
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...
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. Join us today...
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 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 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
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.
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.
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.
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!!
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."
“She wore wildflowers in her hair and joy in her heart”
“Today is the perfect day to be happy”
“Throw kindness around like confetti.”
“Life is the flower for which love is the honey”
“Always stay humble and kind.”
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!
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:
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