Okhai offers handcrafted apparel and lifestyle products created by rural artisans from across India. These artisans are gifted with the talent and traditional skills to craft exquisite designs in styles that are unique to their culture and heritage. Proceeds from sales help these artisans help themselves – Okhai’s mission is to encourage women from less privileged backgrounds to acquire new skills; to give them the self-confidence and self-esteem required to earn by their own industry and initiative; and to enable them to carry this newly discovered skill and confidence into the wider world. Okhai understands the rich culture and traditions that these rural communities are steeped in and translates this heritage into products by pairing traditional art with contemporary designs and modern processes. Okhai has been identified as a promising means of generating livelihood for hundreds of rural artisans. Okhai has made a significant contribution to the lives of the women artisans working with it, which has helped improve their economic as well as social status.

Problem

In the Okhamandal region of Gujarat many tribal women are trained and highly skilled in embroidery, bead work, patchwork etc. However, due to societal barriers of women working away from home they had significant issues stemming from economic development, financial independence, and societal respect.

Solution

Okhai started by employing the rural women of Okhamandal to provide them with a source of livelihood. They were able to earn for themselves and their families. The economic empowerment of women was a precursor to their social empowerment helping improve their status both socially and economically.

Impact

Okhai has changed the lives of 470 rural families averaging 3,200 people. Providing above fare wages and giving them the opportunity to work from their homes. The Okhai women are now agents of change in their villages. They have become financially independent, more self-confident, and gained respect in their villages.