Taaluma Bracelets
We just got in our new Taaluma bracelets and they look AMAZING!
Even better, these bracelets are made by Refugees in the United States!
So not only do the bracelets fund microloans, they also provide sustainable jobs for Refugees who were forced to leave their homes.
It's Still an Amazing World
Ever Widening Circles “is a media outlet on a mission to change the negative dialogue about our times.” So instead of focusing on negative news and political divisiveness, they write about good things going on in the world, leaving readers feeling uplifted and inspired!
With every story, they are proving that it’s still an amazing world!
Connected Through Culture
Kuala-ty over Quantity
While visiting Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Lucy went fabric hunting at the famous Pasar Seni, which translates to ‘Central Market.’
Her favorite part of the market was the original tiles that decorate the floor. She loved the beautiful and detailed design that speaks of a time long ago.
Can We All Just Get A'longyi?
“The Longyi is a traditional piece of clothing worn by men and women for everyday life in Myanmar. Even in the modern day capital of Yangon, you will see most people wearing a Longyi, whether it is in the office or doing normal daily activities. It’s very much a part of the national identity."
- Traveler Aaron John
Dreaming & Bolivian
Bolivia is a beautiful and diverse country in South America.
It’s known for its awesome Andes mountains and for having lots of llamas (¿Como te llama?).
Over the years, we’ve been able to help six awesome businesses in Bolivia.
From Señora Natalia and "Las 11 Estrellas" (The Eleven Stars), who own a company selling blankets in El Alto. They used their microloan to buy wool so that they could make more blankets and grow their business.
Simply Un-Bali-vable
“We made a guided bike tour through Indonesia from Bali to Komodo – beginning in Bali eastbound to the vast unknown islands Sumbawa, Moyo, Satonda, Komodo, Rinca and Flores.
A beautiful old sailing boat brought us to the coast of different islands and our bike tour took us through remote little villages with very friendly and curious people."
The Intangible
Traveler Priscilla visited Uganda and found something Uganda love.
“The fabric was found in Gulu, Uganda where over 30 years of civil war ensued at the hands of Joseph Kony and the LRA rebels.
The town is incredibly vibrant despite the devastating effects of war that can still be seen.
There are many amazing groups in the area doing incredible work to bring about hope and healing to these people in the aftermath of the war, but wars like these are entirely preventable." - Traveler Priscilla Cheng
Tanz’ of Beauty
Traveler Hartlee spent her summer break exploring Tanzania, a beautiful country where 38% of the land is set aside for conservation (mostly national parks and wildlife preserves).
When we asked her what her favorite three things are about a new place, she responded:
“I love eating (and learning how to cook) the food, exploring nature, and connecting with people over both vastly different and remarkably similar experiences.” - Traveler Hartlee Johnston
A Stand for the Land
The beauty of Nepal will take your breath away.
However, lack of proper waste management in Nepal is beginning to degrade some of that beauty. In many places, around 70% of waste is dumped in rivers or burned on the side of the road. This has contributed to pollution and disease in Nepal’s communities.
It is Taylor’s mission to change that.
Turkish Delight
The Middle East is known for its ancient history, vast deserts, and religious roots.
From being caught in the pyramid-dle of history in Cairo, to taking in the Israeli great views of Jerusalem, to resting on the Abu’ndant sands of Abu Dhabi.
Uganda Love This
It’s been 8 years since the idea for Taaluma Totes was born while on a life-changing trip to Uganda.
Since then, we’ve been able to fund 41 microloans for small business owners living in Uganda.
From Moses, a 24-year-old coffee farmer who used his loan to buy mulch.