Description
Our Story
Global Village Artisans was founded on the belief that handmade crafts are living expressions of culture, history, and identity. Each piece tells a story and connects people across communities. The organisation focuses on preserving traditional artistry while supporting marginalized groups, particularly women and minorities, in remote regions where economic opportunities are limited.
Many artisans are older, and with fewer young people learning these skills, cultural legacies are at risk. Global Village Artisans addresses this by supporting programs that pass down traditional techniques to younger generations, such as teaching Yathra weaving in Bhutan’s Merak region. This initiative provides women with sustainable income, strengthens community connections, and fosters engagement with heritage.
Through partnerships with Fair Trade organisations, Global Village Artisans empowers artisans to reach global markets, ensuring that their work is valued not just as craft, but as culture. The enterprise is structured as a social business, reinvesting profits into artisan programs, women’s empowerment initiatives, and craft-kit projects that preserve traditional skills and connect families to their cultural heritage.
Traditional skills are more than craft—they are stories, heritage, and culture preserved in every piece
Fair Labour Commitments
Global Village Artisans partners directly with artisans, rather than employing them, ensuring fair pay, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights. By sourcing through trusted Fair Trade organisations and maintaining close relationships with makers, the enterprise guarantees transparency and adherence to ethical labour standards.
Artisans are involved in decisions that affect their work, from pay and hours to safety and gender equity. Regular audits and assessments by Fair Trade partners ensure compliance with standards, protecting against modern slavery, child labour, and human trafficking. In addition to fair wages, Global Village Artisans supports economic empowerment through scholarships for indigenous children and skills training for people with disabilities, particularly the deaf and hard of hearing.
Farmers and artisans benefit from long-term partnerships, co-designed upgrades, and programs such as on-site craft experiences that provide additional income. Every product reflects these commitments, connecting consumers to the people behind the craft while reinforcing dignity, fairness, and opportunity.
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Environmental Commitments
Sustainability is central to Global Village Artisans’ approach. The enterprise prioritises eco-friendly materials, traditional production methods, and locally sourced resources that reduce environmental impact. Artisans are encouraged to work with renewable and natural materials, preserving cultural practices that are inherently sustainable.
Global Village Artisans also seeks to mitigate environmental challenges faced by artisans, such as resource scarcity, deforestation, and climate change. By reinvesting profits into communities, supporting environmentally conscious craft techniques, and promoting education for younger generations, the organisation helps maintain both cultural and environmental resilience. Sustainable packaging and responsible production practices further reduce waste and the carbon footprint, ensuring that artisan livelihoods are secure while protecting the natural resources on which they depend.
Products
At Global Village Artisans, our product range includes heirloom handwoven toys, cultural dolls for children, books about cultures, cushion covers, and homewares.
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