Celebrating Stories of Hope
For more than 25 years, Others has served as a beacon of hope, transforming lives through job creation and the fight against poverty.
As a powerful extension of The Salvation Army’s mission to meet human needs, Others goes beyond charity to empower artisans by providing opportunities for financial independence and dignity through their craft. Ethical business is a powerful catalyst for sustainable change. This exhibition, first shown at Gallery 101, showcases the inspiring stories of artisans who have broken the cycle of poverty, finding hope and self-reliance through their work.
Kenya
Others’ first contact with Kenya was in 1999, with formal connections to producer groups starting in 2004.
Well known for its products made from sisal, banana-fibres, beads and other recycled materials, Kenya has nearly 350 artisans and eight production groups. Most artisans are linked to savings and loans groups affiliated with the local Salvation Army.
Starting in 2020, we’ve expanded to work with small-scale coffee farmers in Matungulu.
Carolyn and Margaret harvesting sisal in Kyanganga
‘Apart from my skills development and feeling empowered, through Others I have earned sufficient income over the years to support my family and increase my financial base.’
- Elisabeth, Kenya
‘Immediately after I joined Others, my life changed. I learnt through them how to make products that were sold overseas. This income from Others enabled me to take my son to college and look after my ailing husband. I have also been able to begin a small business with capital from my Others income.’
Regina, Kenya
‘I had skills in making bead products but lacked capital. When I got my first order, back in 2011, I was able to buy materials and pay for my daughter’s college. More orders followed, boosting my income. Now, my eldest daughter runs her own business and the youngest is completing high school. Others has been a blessing to my family.’
Regina, Kenya
‘Since I joined Others group my life has totally changed. I can pay my rent, my daughter’s fees and upkeep, and I see a big change in my life.’
Georgina, Kenya
Bangladesh
‘The Salvation Army is not just a place to work or get training, but it is where I get my dignity. It has given me a life I would never have had.’
- Monoti, Bangladesh
Others began as a local initiative in Bangladesh in 1997, under the name Sally Ann.
Known for embroidery, jute and products made from the handloom, we partner with 618 producers (men and women) from 15 groups.
Some artisans are recruited through artisan groups and Salvation Army community development programmes, such as the rehabilitation centre in Dhaka for victims of human trafficking and exploitation.
Honouring Legacy
Meet Lily Mondal, General Manager of Others Bangladesh. For the last 25 years, Lily has played a pivotal role in shaping Others into the beacon of HOPE and empowerment it is today. As she prepares for retirement, she leaves a legacy of leading with compassion.
‘Before joining The Salvation Army, I volunteered in a brothel in Jashore for two years. I was shocked to see the girls in prostitution. I truly tell you that these girls were my inspiration. As we started to build the Others business, orders were increasing, and demand for natural/recyclable products was increasing. The ladies from the brothel in Jessore and sex workers from Dhaka were invited to make products like candle holders from natural materials. While women are living in darkness, they don’t know a candle of hope is on the other side of the world.
‘I never count my time, but try to help people when they need. It’s an ongoing process – women are struggling, fighting every moment. I don’t know how people will remember me, but I will remember them. And I salute them for their contribution to Others.’ - Lily Mondal
Discover more from Others
Behind every Others product is a unique story of dignity, independence and hope.
Learn more about the story of Others and find your local web shop at www.tradeforhope.com
If you wish to order corporate gifts visit wholesale.tradeforhope.com