About Fair Trade

Fair Trade is an alternative approach to international trade and is a movement to use the power of our everyday consumption to create opportunity for marginalized people all around the world. In general, companies and organizations that call themselves "fair trade" commit to following an internationally agreed upon set of principles or core values. These principles make fair trade as a holistic approach to creating better equity within the international trading system. 

Therefore, fair trade is it not only about paying a fair wage, but also building capacity, committing to work with marginalized people who need these opportunities the most, being good stewards of the environment, respecting cultural traditions, working collaboratively and engaging the producers in the decision-making process and developing long-term relationships among other things.

Fair Trade Principles

  1. Creating Opportunities for Economically and Socially Marginalized Producers
  2. Developing Transparent and Accountable Relationships
  3. Building Capacity
  4. Promoting Fair Trade
  5. Paying Promptly and Fairly
  6. Supporting Safe and Empowering Working Conditions
  7. Ensuring the Rights of Children
  8. Cultivating Environmental Stewardship
  9. Respecting Cultural Identity

Fair Trade Resources

 

Dsenyo (dee-SEN-yo) is giving a hand UP to women and artisans working their way out of poverty. Contemporary handbags, accessories and home decor celebrating African Textile design.

Shop in Person

The Mustard Seed

847-735-0211

http://www.mustardseedfairtrade.com/

202 Westminster
Illinois, Lake Forest 60045

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About Dsenyo

Dsenyo is a social enterprise.  We believe business is a powerful way to address social and economic problems. Countless challenges confront creative people in Malawi, Africa as they try to build their businesses, practice their craft & support their families. 

After living in Malawi, artist Marissa Perry Saints founded Dsenyo to create opportunity for hard-working, African women and artisans.  Dsenyo offers hand-crafted bags and accessories that celebrate African textile design.  We follow Fair Trade principles working to create maximum benefit for the women, artisans & communities in which we work.

  

Marissa's Blog

Testimonials

Leslie - Broomfield, CO

Leslie - Broomfield, CO

The swing bag I purchased from the Dsenyo Moza collection is the best over the shoulder bag I have found.  I use it in every season! I looked specifically for a purse style with a long, adjustable stap that allows me to secure the purse across my body and this swing bag has everything I wanted. The purse is a perfect size and all the pockets keep my loot organized and accessible.

Watch Our Video

Marissa shares her vision for Dsenyo. Learn more about her passion to create jobs for women and artisans in Malawi and how you can help.

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