There's a saying in Ethiopia.
"Carried by one person, 50 lemons are nothing but a heavy load.
But 50 lemons, carried by 50 people – now each one is a jewel."
It speaks to the power of community, of sharing the wealth, and reminds us that an opportunity for one can create opportunity for many.
This International Womens' Day, we celebrate the women that embody this spirit every day.
When You Empower Women, You Empower Everyone.
We're firm believers in the notion that a living wage reaches further than just the person receiving it. To learn more about this impact, we asked our employees; "How has your job helped someone other than you?".
Yeshiwork Geremew, Stitching Expert
"There is an 80 year old woman who lives nearby and has been suffering due to poverty, especially now that she is too old to work. I was taught that there's always a blessing in helping the elderly – so my friends and I came together to raise awareness, and now we're all contributing to pay her rent and bring her groceries. I never thought I'd be able to help people like this, but working at Parker Clay has given me the confidence to put others first."
Alem Alela, Stitching Expert
"With my 2 year old daughter, I wasn't sure how I would find work and care for her. With my wages at Parker Clay, my mother was able to stop working and take care of my baby girl while I work my dream job. Now my mom has a safer and easier job, and gets to spend all day with her grandbabies!"
Woinishet Hailu, Stitching Expert
"For the last 2 years, I've been a stay-at-home mom raising my son. I tried to apply for jobs, but couldn't find one that would cover the expenses of day care. A friend suggested I apply at Parker Clay – now I have the financial freedom to support my family, work a full time job, and know my son is safe and happy at daycare. I work today for his tomorrow."
Your support creates ethical employment and living wages for at-risk women in Ethiopia. Those women turn right around and support entire villages with their incredible work ethic, perseverance, and generosity.
Join us in celebrating them this International Womens' Day – go forth and empower your village today, or shop with Parker Clay and help us all work towards a better world.
Learn more about Parker Clay's Impact here