AIRASIA FOUNDATION SUPPORTS RAGSIIRICHES MANILA

Outfit while I was in Manila, Philippines at F1 Hotel
OLD BLOSSOM BOX scarf & lipstick top/ THRIFTED polka dot shirt
OLD BLOSSOM BOX jeans/ BANGKOK clog heels
SAUDAGAR&CO necklace/ LOUIS VUITTON speedy

In the wake of the Haiyan Typhoon that happened recently in Philippines, I thought it was a good timing to blog on my trip to Manila recently (read part 1 here), and how like many organizations out there are helping Philippines, AirAsia is part of the generous organization too. And to remind myself what are truly beautiful country Philippine is, and how I cant wait to get back via AirAsia ofcourse :)

In July, AirAsia Foundation has chosen a Manila based company, RagsIIRiches for a yearly grant, for all 100 craftsmen to train.

All about crafting home deco and sought after bags, Rags2Riches has successfully transformed the lives of hundreds of artisans through its innovative approach, which combines ethical business and environmental issues. It is a business model of the future and through the grant, its aim is to not only help the business grow but also share its success story around the region.

Upon hearing the inspirational story on how the idea began and why, I truly LOVE that AirAsia Foundation supports RagsIIRiches. 

And as said earlier, because of the devastation by Haiyan Typhoon, AirAsia recently offered assistance to Philippines typhoon victims too. Which did not only include cash donations, but also free cargo space and free flights for NGOs/relief workers/humanitarian workers, and 250,000 free seats for Philippians to return home. Isnt that remarkable?

One of the wristlets that will be available on AirAsia flights :)
Dont forget to buy one and support the cause!

By having Rags2Riches products on AirAsia, the artisans will gain access to the ASEAN market through a new partnership with AirAsia Megastore that will see products from the artisans being sold on board its flights.

Group picture with AirAsia representetive, Ashman/ Apprentice Asia winner Jonathan Yabut, other Malaysian press & Ami, and ofcourse the RagsIIRiches team and artisan at their HQ in Manila

 

With Pinoy of RagsIIRiches

Through the grant, Rags2Riches receives $13,275 to fund the training of 100 new artisans to produce eco-ethical fashion and home accessories using upcycled scrap cloth, organic materials and indigenous fabrics. The artisans, who come mainly from underprivileged communities in the Philippines, will participate in skills upgrade, design improvement and knowledge exchange workshops at the Rags2Riches Artisan Academy over a 12-month period.

Going crazy over bags here

Artisans at work, love matching the process of making :)

Guess which one I bought???