Bits and Pieces: An Interview with 31 Bits

I apologize for my absence, readers.  I have been quite the busy bee...but...I have managed to orchestrate quite a compelling interview.  Even better...it's a collaborative effort with my lovely friend Caroline Boneham.

I have had the privilege of working with the jewelry company 31 Bits for the past 6 months holding a position as campus representative at USD.  The fulfillment, inspiration, and perspective that I have gained from this experience is way beyond what I expected to gain from working with these women.  I have read and heard stories that warm my heart, and am so lucky to have had an opportunity to spread the word about this amazing company...

So before you read on, here's the gist of the company and their mission:

"31 Bits Designs is a socially minded business designed to give internally displaced women in Northern Uganda an opportunity to counter poverty. By giving our beneficiaries access to the international market, they are able to earn an instant income, providing homes, food, and education for their families. Our program equips women by providing literacy education, financial and vocational training, holistic care, and strong support systems, empowering individuals to further their careers and attain social equity."

For this post, Caroline and I wanted to give readers a peek into the behind-the-scenes of the company, as well as portray daily business life from two different perspectives.  Caroline scored an interview with Alli, the Director of Marketing, and I got to see what life was like for one of the few and lucky 31 Bits interns.  Read on to meet Malia, the infectiously effervescent PR/Marketing intern and a dear friend of mine...

 

Q: What was it that peeked your interest about working for 31 Bits?

A: The first thing about 31 Bits that caught my eye were the striking colors, patterns and overall variety in the products themselves. It seemed to me that this was the kind of jewelry that could be tossed into almost anyone's wardrobe. As I learned more about the movement behind the jewelry and the programs provided for the women, I was completely moved and inspired by what really goes on at the compound in Uganda. I learned that 31 Bits not only provides a business liaison for these women to be successful in monetary terms, but there is a plethora of programs offered to these women that allows them to develop relationships with each other, express their creativity, and go through training that teaches them how to handle money and even how to run business of their own. 31 Bits is more than just a workplace for the women, it is truly their haven. 

Q: What project have you worked on so far this summer has been your favorite accomplishment for the company?

A: What I love about interning for 31 Bits, is that we are able to explore other realms of the business outside of our own intern positions. As a PR/Marketing intern, I have done a great deal of blogging, which is one of my favorite hobbies. It is so neat to experience how my hobby influences and propels a business like 31 Bits. It has made me realize the great effect of social media, especially in the marketing aspect of a business. The best thing about doing PR/Marketing for a company like this is that my job is to spread the word about more than just cute jewelry, but an extraordinary cause. Aside from this, I have participated in the making of a video, working along side other interns to create an exciting summer campaign! But I can't spill the beans just yet, you will just have to wait and see. 

Q: Is there a piece from the new summer line that you plan on making your next purchase?

A: I definitely have had my eye on the Bermuda Braid. I love the combination of colorful fabric and layered beads. I think it's the perfect addition to any summer outfit or even if you just need a little something to spice up a T-shirt and jeans type of ensemble. 

Malia's favorite piece for summer!

Q: Can you give us any hints as to what we should expect from 31 Bits in the fall?

A: I have been told only a few things that are to come in the Fall. 31 Bits has been planning ahead for the launch of the Fall line, and it's surely going to be an exciting one. I think that the Fall line is an especially distinct collection, and I myself am anxious to see what comes of it!

Q: Has there been a moment of satisfaction where you were really able to see the difference you were making in these Ugandan women's lives?

A: Even when I look at the jewelry now, I find myself constantly baffled that these pieces are handmade out of 100% recycle material. Seeing all the jewelry at the warehouse intrigues me because I always think about the different stories behind the hands that crafted such beautiful pieces. That alone, is empowering. One particular moment I can recall that made me truly feel like I was part of something that was making a huge difference in the women's lives, was when I heard about 31 Bits' partnership with The Aids Support Organization (TASO). TASO and 31 Bits provides the women with education, counseling, and testing for HIV. It's heartwarming to know that these women are in such good hands.

To check out the company and peruse more pieces from the summer line, visit www.31bits.com

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