Behind Ceesay handmade glass…
“Turning Waste into Wealth.” a motto heavily inspired my approach to designing bespoke glassware.
I am very excited to kick off our Lagom blog on International Women’s Day!
Every other week I will be sharing stories about the incredible women who have inspired our brand as each of our glasses is named after one of these inspirational figures. Today, let's start with our bestseller: the Ceesay handmade glass, inspired by none other than Isatou Ceesay, the Queen of recycling. Curious to learn more?
Keep reading…
Photo credit Max Riche
Isatou Ceesay, a notable environmentalist and social entrepreneur from Gambia, has garnered international acclaim for her dedicated efforts to combat environmental challenges, specifically plastic pollution. One of her most significant contributions is the establishment of the "One Plastic Bag" initiative, a program dedicated to repurposing plastic waste into practical items. Through this initiative, Ceesay not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also fosters community development and women's economic empowerment in rural Gambia.
More below…
Photos credits: Luke Duggleby/Climate Heroes
The "One Plastic Bag" initiative serves as a platform for recycling plastic waste and transforming it into useful products. By engaging local communities in the collection and repurposing of plastic materials, Ceesay not only mitigates environmental harm caused by plastic pollution but also creates economic opportunities for women. In many rural areas of Gambia, women face significant socio-economic challenges, including limited access to formal employment and educational opportunities. By involving these women in the initiative, Ceesay provides them with a source of income and empowerment.
Through training programs and skill development workshops, women are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to participate in the recycling and production process. As they become active participants in the "One Plastic Bag" initiative, women gain valuable entrepreneurial skills and financial independence. Moreover, by selling the recycled products locally and internationally, these women contribute to their households' income and overall economic stability.
So how do they actually do it?
To transform plastic bags into purses, the process involves collecting, cleaning, and cutting the bags into strips. The shredded plastic becomes a yarn-like material and is then weaved and crochetted into different shapes. Isatou famously said, 'My sister had trained me to weave with yarn, so I was then able to use plastic instead,' she explains. 'We started making purses, but now make pen and pencil holders, balls, necklaces – there are so many different items we have been able to make thanks to recycling.'
Her work resonates deeply with our own values here at Lagom; values regarding sustainability, gender equality, women's empowerment, and so I couldn't be prouder to have my bestseller named after her.
Check out this video link to see how quickly she can turn a plastic bag into a purse.
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