We find out how Grace and Able Empowers Women All Over the World With Jewellery.

The beautiful Grace and Able Princess Wrap bracelets were in our December Box and we wanted to find out more about what inspired Emma, their founder, to create such an amazing brand and how she got started.

1. What motivated you to start Grace andAble?

I grew up in the Philippines so constantly witnessed my parents working with and empowering the underprivileged, it became a way of normal thinking to me. Then in my early twenties I was working in retail and began to question the chain lines, the workers pay, things like that. I began to question why can’t businesses operate certain ways and wondered why but a more humane, ethical production line wasn’t more common. I was also very interested in consumer psychology and wanted people to connect not only how there items are made but who made it. That was really important to me. There is story behind everything. So that and a love of design (I’ve always had a pencil in hand designing something and my diploma in interior design) combined to launch Grace & Able in 2014.

2. What was the biggest challenge when starting Grace and Able?

So many! I’m a mum of two, 8 and an almost 4 year old so they were younger then. Juggling that was hard. Still can be truth be told!Then there are logistical things, like timezone differences and shipping policies. It’s really hard getting shipping from Africa, we actually had a shipment in Amsterdam at one point!

3. Is there any particular person or story that stands out in the Grace and Able journey?

Each person carries a unique story so it’s hard to choose.There is Lovisa in Uganda, a mother to 10, now a grandmother, who has always put others first. She joined the group not just to make an income but because she wants to support single mothers in her community. She challenges me on generosity often.

Then there is Lucy from Kenya who is deaf, which is pretty much cause to be outcast. She was married, her husband has divorced her. She has two beautiful children but because she is deaf, her husband got to keep them. She is saving her money and working hard to get them back through the courts. Her determination is incredibly inspiring. She has overcome so many stigmas to get where she is today.

And then there is Nirmala from Sri Lanka who lost two daughters to a rare genetic disease. She became pregnant again but instead of fear she chose hope. After many poorly paid jobs, she started making jewellery in a small business she is now part owner of. Her baby was born healthy and is a thriving 10 year old. She has been able to even install a toilet in her home! Which is a huge deal!

4. What is your favourite part of running Grace and Able?

I actually enjoy it all! I love sharing our artisans story with my customers and seeing them connect with the artisans. I love designing and collaborating with our artisans. I love seeing the artisans build up in confidence and hope through the work. It’s like watching little lights igniting in them and I’m so privileged to help fan them along.

5. What can we expect to see from you in the next year?

2017 has so much in store! Some of the designs are taking a new look. I am rolling out a Business Development training for sustainable futures Program for our artisans. It is a holistic approach and provides opportunity for them to learn skills such as financial management as well as education in health and nutrition. It’s very early at stages yet but I’m excited to see it unfold bit by bit.

I am also launching an exciting Grace &Able Ambassador opportunity for passionate entrepreneurs here in Australia. So all in all, really looking forward to this year!

Go to www.graceandable.com.au to find out more about this amazing brand.