Himalayan Partnership
BANJAARA has partnered with a Fair Trade women's cooperative that specialise in hand-knitting as a way of generating sustainable livelihoods. Known as the 'Hill Women', they are based in the Himalayan region of Northern India.
Located in the mountainous regions of Northern India, these skilled craftswomen operate as shareholders in their cooperative business. The craftswomen own 100% of their enterprise, ensuring that payments for our knitwear go directly to them without intermediary deductions.
This partnership represents genuine fair trade principles, providing economic empowerment through traditional craft skills and contemporary market access.
Community Organisation
The Hill Women's cooperative is organised into 50 self-help groups and provides sustainable livelihoods for 700 women. This enterprise enables them to work out of their homes producing quality hand-knitted items with the flexibility they require to manage their family life.
Each self-help group functions as a support network where traditional knitting skills create economic opportunities. Home-based work allows artisans to balance family responsibilities whilst contributing to household income through skilled craftsmanship.
Market Access
One of the major challenges the Hill Women face is selling their craft at a larger scale to international markets. BANJAARA provides this bridge, enabling these talented women to participate in the global economy.
We facilitate connections between skilled artisans and international customers who value ethical production. The income from our partnerships enables craftswomen to invest in their children's education, healthcare and community development.
Economic Empowerment
Women hold up half the sky. As a female business owner I am determined to see these incredible women fulfil their potential.
Every purchase contributes to economic opportunities that extend beyond individual artisans to benefit entire families and communities. When women have access to fair income, communities experience broader social and economic development.
Quality Craftsmanship
Each piece demonstrates the skill and attention to detail that characterises traditional hand-knitting techniques. Our Hill Women create high-quality garments using methods passed down through generations.
How does this benefit you?
When you choose our Hill Women's knitwear, you support economic empowerment whilst acquiring garments that demonstrate authentic craftsmanship. You contribute to sustainable livelihoods for skilled artisans whilst building a wardrobe of quality pieces made through ethical production methods.