Sonia

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My husband and I are from Delhi, but his work has taken us to live in many places. Ever since I was a little girl, I've been keen on designing and always wanted to be a part of this fascinating world. And I am. I work in textile and jewelry design.

At first, I displayed my designs in a small boutique. During this time, I got an opportunity to work with an NGO associated with OXFAM. I designed items for a project and it was a great experience for me. Shortly afterward, because of my husband’s work, we had to move. But wherever I went, my dream followed. I always found ways to do something in the same field and started working as a freelance designer.

"During our travels, I met a lot of people who became a part of my life. Getting to know their different cultures and traditions inspired me. I am a nature loving person, and I take inspiration from everything that surrounds me.

"After I returned to India, I started contacting NGOs working in the craft sectors. Eventually I became involved with a lot of them. So, apart from my designing, I also collaborate with a number of NGOs working for the less fortunate.

"I realized I can use my designing skills to help these people. So I started giving them my designs, teaching them and then using their skills to craft my designs. I'm a bridge for artisans in need of income and provide them with sustainable growth opportunities through fair trade.

"Currently, I am also working with Prayas, a school for physically challenged children in Jaipur, and being with these children inspires me a great deal. I derive great joy when I see them smile. I'm giving them vocational training and my students are really happy. I've taken 20 students under my wing.

"Apart from the jewelry, I also design handbags and accessories, apparel and home décor items. Three artisans assist me in textiles, while the others are outsourced, mostly to underprivileged women artisans. All the designs are of my own creation.

"There are so many things that motivate me in life. One is being able to see our artisans become independent — this is a very proud moment for me and motivates me to work more. My husband is also a great source of inspiration for me. Despite his busy schedule, he always has time to discuss my work, comment and also give me tips, and this really helps keep me going. When I am not working, I'm busy playing with my daughter. She is the greatest gift that life has given me and I found true love in her.

"There are so many dreams and aspirations that I have! One is to make a big home for the village craft sector where there is love, peace and equality. Where there is no ignorance, discrimination or exploitation. Where everyone is happy and every child goes to school. Where women are considered equal to men. And this is not only a dream, as I believe one day I can make it a reality."

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NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.

Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.

Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.

The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.

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