A group of idealistic and passionate young women has launched a Victoria-based, nonprofit agency to help improve the lives of women and children in the some of the world’s poorest nations.Local product Julia Norman, who returns often to visit, holds a key position with "The Didi Society," which is working with women’s cooperatives in developing countries to break the cycle of poverty by marketing the women’s handmade products.
To date, Didi has developed partnerships with the Shram and Arya Ashram co-ops in India and the Naibor co-op in Kenya.Didi is also working with local secondary schools as part of its educational program to inform students about issues related to international development and gender.A Julia Norman brainchild, Didi is led by a group of women – all in their 20s – from Victoria and Toronto.
“These women didn’t have any way to market their handmade items," says Norman. "By working cooperatively with them we are able to help them sell their products. This not only empowers them, but provides a tangible way for them to improve their lives and the livesof their families.” The executive director went on to inform that 86 per cent of the people in India live on less than $2 a day, "so selling these handicrafts really helps these women make better lives for themselves and their families.”Didi sells its products three ways:
• An online store at http://thedidisociety.weebly.com/didi-and-bahan-store.html• Retail outlets like Global Village.• Local craft fairs.
Didi means respected elder sister in Hindi. The name reflects the relationship between the non-profit society and the women's co-ops. It reflects the respect and familial relationship that the society hopes to foster, both within the organization and the broader world.
More information is available by contacting:
Julia Norman
Executive Director
The Didi Society
phone: 778-440-0283
email: julia@thedidisociety.org