The women of Abarikumwe are skilled farmers, excellent weavers, and delightful Experiences hostesses. One of Azizi Life’s first artisan partner groups, Abarikumwe has grown together with us, with much laughter along the way. The Abarikumwe artisans specialize in weaving jewelry from natural sisal fibers. [highlight]We are honored to introduce you to the creators of the very first Azizi Life Experience Day![/highlight]

The weavers of Twivanemubukene work together not only to get out of physical poverty through their craft sales, but also to support and encourage one another in all aspects of life. The women care for one another and help each other with loans from the group for urgent needs, and increased income which enables them to purchase food, soap, clothing, and school supplies. Guests rave about their Experience Days with Twivanemubukene artisans! [highlight]Every week, we each make a contribution to the group, which is used for members in need.[/highlight]

Kundagaseke’s artistic specialty is weaving traditional Rwandan baskets from natural sisal fibers. The weavers’ primary desire is to connect with customers – a large and sustainable market – so that their weaving can provide a consistent income for them and their families. The members of the group also hope to keep progressing so they can follow their individual dreams: like paying tuition for their children to go to school. [highlight] Our purpose is to fight against poverty and to develop ourselves.[/highlight]

Inganzo’s artistic focus is wooden figures significant to faith or Rwandan culture, such as nativities or statues of Rwandans in the midst of daily life.[highlight]On a hill near my father’s home and next to my twin brother, I have built my own home with my income from wood carving. – Sylvere Maniraguha[/highlight]

A householder and skilled potter, Francine uses traditional techniques to craft clay products like candle holders and piggy banks. [highlight]Clay dug from the valley, potted and fired with centuries-old methods, yields pottery with a distinctive tan, rust and black finish.[/highlight]

The members of AVEKI Widows’ Cooperative meet weekly to weave natural sisal fibers into beautiful baskets and household items. With their craft, the women are fighting against poverty and developing their families without having to always have to ask for financial help from others. With the fair wage income from their weaving, they have been able to buy annual medical insurance for their families. [highlight] We hope that in the future, each member will be able to own a cow and to pay school fees for her children.[/highlight]

This group of over 20 women work together as a family to support each other and develop their skills. Since working with Azizi Life they have been able to buy annual health insurance and pay the school fees for their children. [highlight]We hope to gain income that will help us to maintain better lives and say goodbye to poverty forever.[/highlight]