After struggling to make ends meet working in construction for low wages far from her home in Nepal, young mother Pan Srey trained to make pottery seven years ago.
Today, creating beautiful works for Ten Thousand Villages, she earns a good living working from home where she can care for her family.
“A lot of the work we support is work our artisans do from home. Not only does it keep families together, but for women they can earn a living wage,” says Trish Buhler, manager of Langley’s volunteer-run store.
Celebrating their 15th anniversary in McBurney Plaza this Saturday, July 28, the not-for-profit sells work by artisans from developing nations around the world, paying them a living wage and helping support sustainable economic growth.
Local purchases of these quality products helps support communities from the ground up, providing artisans with money to spend locally and reinvest in their business, Buhler says.
Amazing things in store!
Representing more than 30 countries around the world, the Ten Thousand Villages shelves are a treasure trove of home decor, gifts and specialty foods, many from Central and South America, Africa and Asia.
Every inspired design – beautiful jewellery, scarves, glassware and more – is crafted with love using local materials (usually natural or recycled) and time-honoured skills by makers the organization has known and worked with for years.
You’ll also find a wide variety of food items, including delicious chocolate from Ghana and coffee from South America.
Women aren’t the only ones who benefit.
Buhler shares the story of a young man from Nepal, trained in his family’s generations-old pottery tradition, who has been able to incorporate a few modern innovations to expand. Today, trhoguh the support of Ten Thousand Villages, he oversees his company’s international trade and larger production workshop, while still crafting high-quality pottery in the traditional style.
Anniversary celebrations
Join Ten Thousand Villages July 28 for an in-store celebration marking the successes of 15 years. In addition to cake, coffee and in-store samples, customers can look forward to an in-store scavenger hunt for the kids, a variety of in-store discounts, and an opportunity to “sping the wheel” for additional savings.
“We really want to thank the community for supporting us for 15 years,” Buhler says, inviting regulars and newcomers alike to stop in for a visit.
Stop by in McBurney Plaza from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to join the fun!
