Rwanda's handcrafted tote bags featured at Golden Globe Awards

The aftermath of the 75th Golden Globes Awards was characterised by the world gushing over Oprah Winfrey’s moving speech and further discussions about sexual harassment as well as gender equality and equity. Amid the pandemonium, it could have passed without notice that among the gifts given to the winners was a Made in Rwanda tote bag handmade by the local artisan women of Masoro, in Gasabo district, which turned out to be an outstanding feature of the night. The women Golden Globe winners were gifted Kate Spade “On Purpose Collection” by Rwandan artisan women. Courtesy. The limited edition small bags are part of the U.S-based fashion company Kate Spade “On Purpose Collection” which works with over 150 talented Rwandan women artisans since 2014 to produce the handmade bags and wristlets for economic empowerment. An assortment of accessories including cosmetics, bags as well gadgets were given to the winners of the Golden Globes and according to fashion critics, the tote bags from Rwanda made a fashion statement. Kate Spade On Purpose collection has been working with the women to produce different fashion accessories which are shipped to the U.S market and the proceeds are used to empower the women. Since 2014, the business model has benefited the artisans economically and socially. “Here’s a sneak peek at the gift bags our guests will receive at this years #GoldenGlobes. The gifts include Kate Spade totes for the women, Away carry-ons for the men, & a collection of other goodies thanks to our marvellous contributors,” the organisers of the Golden Globe Awards tweeted. According to fashion publication “InStyle”, all the nominees and attendees were treated to a variety of gifts with the ladies taking home a “Kate Spade studded leather tote filled with lust-worthy makeup and beauty products”. The special edition which was distributed during the Golden Globe Awards is thought to cost about $328 while the ones on normal sale cost about $128. According to Kate Spade, the purpose of the collection is to give the women in Masoro economic stability and thus transform the community. As part of the initiative, Kate Spade & Company trains the artisans to produce their products. They also train the women in financial literacy and personal health, in order to help them evolve their existing cooperative into a licensed business. The company also offers the artisans a fair salary and working conditions compliant with global standards. Workers get benefits such as vacation time, maternity leave, health care and national social security benefits. Kate Spade says the initiative is not a not charity but a business model which creates jobs for talented women making beautiful products and offering them a way to participate in the global marketplace The Golden Globe Awards, which happened for the 75th time, are the most prestigious movie awards which bring together Hollywood’s best actors and actresses. The January 7 awards saw stars come out in big numbers to make fashion statements. editorial@newtimes.corw

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Rwanda's handcrafted tote bags featured at Golden Globe Awards