Currently, our Executive Director Diana Wiley is on her way back from Nairobi, Kenya after an eventful week of selecting new product in preparation for Christmas in Texas! After cashing in some well-earned air miles, off she went!
Some people ask us why we personally go over to Africa to select product for the The Vineyard Marketplace instead of simply ordering via the internet (which we also do sometimes with long-term partners).
True Vineyard Ministries supports the social enterprise of African artists and cooperatives. We develop strong personal relationships with the artisans so that we actively participate in ensuring the sustainability of their cooperative. Through long-term relationships with our partners in Africa, we can successfully tell their stories of hope and empowerment that accompany the beautiful products sold on their behalf.
We also have the unique opportunity to work on product development ensuring the highest quality products for our customers in the States. The personal relationship is mutually beneficial – we provide encouragement, counsel, and business through face-to-face interaction. The feedback that we offer often helps them to better position themselves to expand their market to other people and organizations. One-on-one interaction helps us and our partners uphold the highest possible integrity in our business transactions.
Upon creating a new buying relationship with a women's cooperative in Nairobi, Diana says, “Our recent order just paid their November salaries!” In return, we are able to provide you with exquisite accessories, jewelry, and other items along with knowing that we are making a real impact in Africa. We also have excellent accountability with our partners, ensuring our partners and their employees are receiving a fair wage for their earnings as we pay for everything in full upon initial purchase.
Talk about Shopping for Good! I hope you're getting ready for our incredible Christmastime Trunk Show in November (details to come)!
