Fair Trade
Persona Grata Goods is a social enterprise in Charlotte, North Carolina that invests in refugee women, providing a welcoming environment for them to practice English, build friendships with other women, and have flexible, sewing employment. The organization strives to use sustainable materials for all of its products, so most napkins and table runners are made from fabric deadstock or donations. When you buy napkins or kitchen towels through this link and enter code RISE at checkout, Persona Grata will donate 10 percent of the sale’s proceeds to Together Women Rise – and you’ll get an extra 5 percent off your purchase.
Rumi Spice direct sources the highest quality spices from rural farmers and women in Afghanistan to help provide reliable wages and economic stability. The company is on a mission to create connections to the vibrant culture of the Middle East, its delicious food, and its people – showing the story of the Afghan people, so others can know the vibrancy of the region and people, not just war and strife. Rumi Spice’s mission is to create those connections and with them, peace. It is the largest private employer of women in Afghanistan. As of 2023, Rumi Spice supports 10,000 livelihoods in Afghanistan and hopes to be supporting 100,000 livelihoods within the next 5 years. Shop HERE and 10 percent of your purchase will be donated to Together Women Rise.
Books
Fiction
Rickshaw Girl by Mitali (Bose) Perkins
From Speak Up for the Poor: Richshaw Girl is a book for adults and children alike. The author, Mitali Perkins, who is of Bangladeshi heritage, tells an inspiring fictional story about a Bangladeshi girl’s determination to overcome gender-based obstacles and help her impoverished family to survive and thrive.
Non-Fiction
Girl Rising: Changing the World One Girl at a Time
From Amazon: A gorgeous, full-color oversized book about educating girls across the world inspired by the documentary that Entertainment Weekly says “every mother, sister, daughter, should see, as well as the men who love and support them.” This is the right book for the present moment and perfect for fans of inspirational nonfiction such as “I Am Malala” and anyone who believes that one girl can change the world.
Films
Fifth anniversary version of the documentary film – Available to rent or buy on Amazon.
From Speak Up for the Poor: “This film does not specifically portray Bangladeshi culture or people, but its inspiring portrayal of nine girls from various countries, all seeking access to education, closely aligns with the issues for girls and young women that we work to address through our Girls Education Program (GEP). This informative and inspiring film relates closely to our efforts to defend, educate, and empower vulnerable girls in our own working context in Bangladesh.”
Available for rent from Amazon (English subtitles)
From Amazon: Shimu, 23, works in a clothing factory in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Faced with difficult conditions at work, she decides to start a union with her co-workers. Despite threats from the management and disapproval of her husband, Shimu is determined to go on. Together the women must fight and find a way.
Features music from Bangladesh and other countries
Available on Amazon streaming