MADE 51 / UNCHR

Refugee Craft Collaboration

Working with MADE51, a UNHCR initiative established 2018, that connects refugee artisans to global markets, brought Somalian beading artists into a co-creation process with an international fashion and interiors brand.

Together we developed beaded shoulder straps and bag handles, components that met the full quality standard of the brand with fully traceable components and on timely delivery.

The collaboration preserved traditional craft and generated real income for the refugee artists and allowed for them to continue with their craft. Keeping the artisans more equipped for a dignified and independent return to their hometowns.

Big Blue Dot acted as instigator and project lead, identifying the opportunity, building the partnership with MADE51, and managing delivery end to end. Truly astonished by the skill of the artisans and the smoothness of the project. With 29.4 million refugees and 62.5 million internally displaced people worldwide, the need to bridge the gap, between the artisans and international businesses is huge. Made51 make this possible by breaking down the legal and market barriers.