Bird In A Cage - Social Enterprise

Project 2019-03-01 16:33:01 +1300

ABOUT

With over 40 million people enslaved in either sexual or labour slavery we are in the midst of the worst slavery epidemic in our world's history.

To me, birds are a symbol of freedom. Birds were created to soar over this earth, their little bodies fragile but their wings powerful. Sadly, humankind invented cages to trap and keep these beautiful creatures and clip their wings so they cannot escape - all for the pleasure of their owners. But the one thing that cannot not be confined is a bird's voice. My heart goes out to all the unheard voices from caged women and children across our world and Bird in a Cage is here to represent their voices in asking for help.

The range of jewellery that is currently in the design process will reflect the caged bird concept and is likely to be sterling silver with copper accents. It's intended to be a lasting reminder to the wearer to be grateful for their freedom and to think of and pray for those who don't have this basic right. We will update you as designs progress! 

THE MISSION

To raise awareness and funds and to help other people find their voice in standing up for this important issue. As well as telling the stories of women and children who have found freedom. Ultimately (long term goal) to employ those in recovery or post-recovery to produce Bird in a Cage products as a means to support themselves and their families. 100% of profits from the products sold will go to organisations fighting human trafficking and rehabilitating victims (such as Hagar NZ).

WHAT WILL THE FUNDING BE USED FOR?

The one thing I don't have is startup funds. I fundraised in order to pay for the setup costs of the business and website but I don't have the means to make my first manufacturing order.

PledgeMe funds will be used specifically to manufacture and order my first run of the jewellery range and packaging - and if we raise more than expected I would also invest in some equipment to do smaller scale manufacturing from home. 

Stage 2 once the online shop is established with a range of product I would like to invite NZ designers to contribute to it and further on, find links into the international market using PR stories to give reciprocal benefit. 

The long term goal is to find ways to get victims who are in recovery or trying to re-establish a life post-recovery, to make products for Bird in a Cage giving a full circle benefit to human trafficking survivors.

THE HELP

I have been very fortunate to have specialists in their field donate their time to help me get this project running - Greg Hay from HP Hanna & Company Ltd for accounting/business structure advice, Josh Thompson from ThompsonCo for my logo and design work, Tyson Roberts currently working on the jewellery designs and other small business owners and social enterprise starters giving me their insights and experience. Thank you!

I've chosen not to be one of those people... join me!

Comments