Quazi Design is a Fair Trade organization based in Swaziland that trains women in innovative paper product techniques and provides full time work. It was started by a designer from the UK and a local magazine distributor. They worked to build a sustainable business with a dynamic balance between economic and social goals, believing that design driven handicrafts can be a powerful too for empowerment and economic independence. The core of their business is pushing the boundaries of craft and sustainable design through innovative techniques and continuous product development. All products are handmade and utilize 100% waste magazines.
This handwoven sisal necklace is made by Tintsaba. Tintsaba is a Fair Trade organization that provides training, jobs and mobile healthcare to hundreds of rural women in Swaziland. All of Tintsaba’s jewelry is made from Sisal Agave, an invasive weed that has spread through Swaziland because of its use to make cattle fences. Because it is an invasive exotic plant it is ideal for craft production. The preparation of the sisal involves little water, no chemicals and environmentally friendly certified dyes.
