There are no words to describe the situation here in Haïti. In the last few months, things have taken a turn for the worse and we find ourselves constantly needing to find new ways to keep going, to keep hoping. We do this by remembering our “why”, by encouraging each other mutually and making sure we do everything in our power to keep business going.
Ever since Haiti Design Co has been created, our goal has been to not only create unique and quality products, but also to connect to buyers to the stories and faces behind each piece. The maker’s box has been our way to do just that. Each season, we curate products you will love in collaboration with Haitian artisans to help develop and grow their own businesses. Through initiatives like the maker’s box, we have been ale to keep artisans employed and hopeful by not only providing jobs but also by reminding them that people are still thinking about Haïti and still value our art and talents.
My name is Maggie Joseph and I started working with HDC when we began the VAK branch in O Cap. Before getting this job, I was always in a situation where I was constantly obligated to take out loans, but since having a steady job with VAK, I have never had to borrow money- which is very empowering. I would love that our customers know and realize what a difference they are truly making. There are so many women in my neighborhood that watch me go to work every day, and they often come to the workshop looking for a job. Every product our customers have purchased have given so many people steady jobs that help support their families, and every product they will buy in the future will give even more steady jobs.
Maggie - Spring Maker’s box 2018
To us, it is more than just a box. It is a way of keeping the hope alive in a time where it is so easy to get discouraged. Our moto has been the same from the start, “Men anpil, chay pa lou” and will remain the same till the end because we firmly believe that it takes many many hands to keep going.
“Working with HDC betters our lives, and I want everyone to see how we represent our country in the products we create.” GERALD - LEATHER TEAM
Spring, for many, is the symbol of hope and we believe that this spring 2022 maker's box is a great way to empower Haitian entrepreneurs and support Haïti in this dark time. As we ship out this season’s boxes, we want to invite you, friend and supporter, to learn more about these boxes and join our many other faithful subscribers.
We strive to keep the light on even in this season. We have faith that, with hard work, positivity and love, we can move mountains.