Now that it’s officially official I’m happy to announce that come September I’ll be traveling across to India with these lovely ladies in support of ,Louisville based non-profit, Anchal Project.
Long story, short, I came to realization that I was blessed with this platform and reach for a reason, and while the reason is most often a chance for me to pay my bills while living the life I’ve always wanted – it’s also for something a lot bigger.
Sure. Free clothes and shoes are great. Travel? Hell yes. I love it. But earlier this year I began to wonder what was next. As in, what happens when I’m old, wrinkly, and no one cares what the hell I have to say anymore? What legacy will I leave? What will my mark on the community be? If I were to die tomorrow would I have left the world a better place, or would I have just been another face lost in a sea of filtered Instagram photos?
I didn’t start this blog to change the world or leave a mark, but I’ve learned that people began to listen to what I had to say, regardless, and my voice is more powerful than I ever imagined.
Not to knock any bloggers than post nothing but selfies. I get it, we’ve all got bills to pay, but imagine the impact we could all have if we mobilized our communities to fight for change vs. pushing our communities to click that affiliate link. The power rooted in the influencer community is seriously outstanding, but for the most part, it’s a tool for personal gain not a tool to impact change.
Lindsay, if you’re reading this, you’re the reason why I’m taking this trip, taking the plunge, stepping outside my comfort zone, and doing what I can to make this world a little bit better of a place. Thank you.
Now that y’all know why I’m going on this trip, allow me to introduce Anchal Project. They’re a local non-profit that I’ve been following closely for the last 3-4 years.
I’ve become close with Colleen and Maggie over the last few years and still remember the first time one of their artisans spoke like it was yesterday. There was not a dry eye in the room. The impact and change this small, non-profit is making is real. It’s tangible. And I’m constantly blown away by these women, seriously. I’m also incredibly thankful that they’ve been gracious enough to allow me to join them on this trip. Y’all will get to know them and their mission a lot better over the next couple of months, stay tuned!
Before I go, thank you all for the continued support over the years. Without each and every person that tunes into this space of mine I wouldn’t be able to travel halfway across the world and have the chance to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity.
And before you go, I’ve included a little more information on Anchal Project, what they do, and what’s next for them below.
What is Anchal?
Anchal is a non-profit 501c(3) social enterprise that addresses the exploitation of women around the world by using design thinking to create employment opportunities, services and products that support empowerment. When you purchase Anchal’s one-of-a-kind products, you empower women with economic stability, community, confidence and restoration of self-worth.
What does anchal mean?
In hindi, the word “anchal” refers to the edge of a sari used to provide comfort and protection to loved ones.
What does Anchal do?
Through our artisan program, Anchal provides alternative careers in textile design and production to exploited and marginalized women in India. Anchal works directly with female commercial sex workers who are seeking a way out of the trade.
What does Anchal’s future look like?
Expansion! We believe our model can be replicated around the world. Our first initiative outside of India is dyeScape located in Louisville, Kentucky.