At Adinkra Designs, we understand the importance of buying products direct from the artisan to ensure they are being paid adequately for their trade and to support the underlying economic growth of these communities. Our baskets are ethically produced in Ghana, where we work directly with a team of artisans to provide a fair, secure and reliable income. 

And while we love importing beautiful handmade products from the skilled craftsman of Ghana, it somewhat feels like it’s not enough. We believe more can be done. Of course a business needs to make an income or it is not sustainable, but we created this business with more in mind. We want to make an impact and our values reflect this. In our eyes, success isn’t measured by profit but by how much of a contribution we have made.

We strongly believe that supporting the children is equally, if not, of utmost importance, after all they are our future. Education plays a vital role in empowering children to know their value and to gain income-generating skills. Sadly, so many children are unable to attend school, as their family simply can’t afford it. According to recent UNESCO statistics, in sub-Saharan Africa, over a fifth of children between the ages 6-11 are out of school.  

Through our partnership with the African Youth Initiative (AYI), together we are growing a network of Youth Centres that focus on giving children a recreational space where they receive tutoring, access to computers, library and sports equipment. Lunch meals are also provided to the children free of charge.  

AYI has developed a structured program, Recreational Incentive Smart Education (RISE). The program provides a supportive environment for local children to gather, learn and play. A key part of the program is to also support the children through individual casework, mentoring and counseling.  

Many local children don’t receive regular education and the Youth Centres function to provide a consistent and stable program to supplement their schooling that aims to build their life skills and confidence to break the cycle of poverty. 

How to get involved: 

AYI is completely self-funded through donation and run by a team of dedicated volunteers who take no salary for themselves. 100% of all proceeds raised goes directly into setting up and running the Youth Centres.

There are several ways you can help us achieve a better future for the children:

1. Become a Friend of AYI through a monthly donation. It costs only $10 per month and you will receive regular updates on our centres.
2. Attend one of our fundraising events. For the details, keep in touch on Facebook, Instagram or sign up to receive our newsletter.
3. We welcome much needed resources such as school books, pencils, school bags, sports equipment (especially soccer balls - the kids are mad about soccer!), second hand clothing, shoes, toys. Please email us to arrange collection.

Businesses, We Need You!

If you are a likeminded small business that also believes in making a difference, we’d love to hear from you. We regularly run fundraising drives and always looking for businesses to collaborate with.  

Collaborate?

Previously we worked with Pop Ya Tot who designed an exclusive range of Dummy Chains for Adinkra Designs. All proceeds from the sale were used to fund resources for the children. 

Donate Seconds?

If you manufacture your own products and have seconds you are unable to sell, please consider donating them if you think they could make some children happy.

Be Part of our next Online Auction Fundraising Event 

In November 2017, we are looking to run an online auction. All proceeds from the auction will be used to fund the Youth Centres. We need product donations from small business to auction. We hope to run these auctions on a regular basis so please drop us a line if you would like to be involved.

From the Press or looking to collaborate? Get in contact here.