Priced at around $50/pair, these sandals are hand crafted by graduates of Cornerstone Leadership Academy, women in Uganda who are employed by Sseko Designs to earn money so they can continue their education. The Ugandan school system gives students a nine month gap between secondary school and university to allow time for them to earn money for tuition, but because of the impoverished and male dominated society, many of these young women struggle to find fair work during this time.
The profit made on each pair of sandals goes towards university tuition that will allow these women to pursue their dreams of becoming a successful doctor, lawyer, business woman...you name it.
In a world where social entrepreneurship is on the rise, there are so many opportunities for couples to give back to those who need it most. Many couples prefer guests to donate to one of the charities they support in lieu of gifts. This is just one more great way to incorporate a great cause into your wedding -- and better yet, they just launched a wedding line that offers these sandals in custom colors to match your wedding! Each sandal comes with a base with five loops, and a strap, so they can be worn multiple ways (reminds me of the convertible bridesmaid dresses I blogged about last year)! Perfect for a spring or summer wedding, and the ideal dancing shoes!
It's always refreshing to take a step outside of myself and learn about the creative ways people in this world are giving back. It reminds me what a blessing it is to have money to buy sandals, to attend a university with the financial support of my parents, to have a college degree. Definitely makes me stop and think about where I'm investing my money. "Freely you have received, so freely give!"
Every sandal has a story. Let's share in that story.
Make sure to go to their website to see more strap colors and read more about this amazing organization!
All photos credit of Sseko Designs.
