We know a little bit about working in challenging environments through our time together in Haiti and we are always on the look out for stories about talented “artists” who bring their skills to the manufacturing of goods. 
Please consider this story from the perspective of a merchant who is looking to launch Africa into the international fashion scene. “The raw materials are all imbued with mysticism, embellishment and meaning” writes the author, Hanneli Rupert.  How wonderful to be selecting clothes and accessories that carry this aura and we hope that you will support companies trading African made goods. We all know that charity is not the vehicle for change.  Today’s story shares her perspective.  
We will be adding our voice in the coming month to the conversation about how real change will come for countries who need a pathway to the global economic markets:
 http://www.businessoffashion.com/community/voices/discussions/what-will-it-take-for-africa-to-join-the-global-fashion-system/op-ed-africa-needs-credible-international-partners