Graded by Grace Ikwetta - African Handmade Leather Sandals and Belts

Graded by Grace Ikwetta – African Handmade Leather Sandals and Belts

When Sheeni approached me with a very touching email, I was not sure what this Ikwetta project was all about. But after I watched that short 3 minute video below, I was tearing up and getting very emotional. I am from China and I had a pretty rough childhood, often without enough food. During my middle school years, the place we lived was very similar to the slums in the video. I spent a lot of time daydreaming that someday, I would change my fate and have a better life.

Maybe because I am a teacher, I always believe that old saying “give a man a fish and he eats for a day; teach him to fish and he eats for a lifetime.” So I am so happy that I can be a part of this meaningful project on Kickstarter to help African artisans build their own workshop. Hopefully someday they will get back on their own feet and move out of the slums.

How can you help with this project on Kickstarter? This is a Kickstarter campaign and if you are not familiar with them, they work a little bit differently. This campaign will last till July 6th, by which time Sheeni has to complete their goal of raising $10,000. How they reach is by people who are interested in their products coming online to their Kickstarter Campaign page and pledging an amount. Depending on your pledge, you could be given a Reward. All the rewards are listed out on the campaign page. If they reach the goal of $10,000, they will use the money to build a new workshop for their African artisans, where they will make the rewards for the backers/supporters. If they do not reach the full $10,000, those who pledge don’t pay anything.

Here are the rewards if you decide to pledge:

Ikwetta’s Sandals are handcrafted using Genuine African Leather by Artisans who are living in slums. As you can see, they are very unique and well made. The bonus? They are very comfy!

This project will only be funded if at least $10,000 is pledged by Mon, Jul 6 2015 11:59 PM EDT.

And in case you were wondering, YES, I made my pledge and hope you make yours! Together we can take a small step (wearing very cool and colorful sandals!) to help end poverty, a few people at a time.

Below are more photos of me wearing Ikwetta African Handmade Leather Sandals.