Marina Home Launches Holiday Collection To Help Refugees
Marina Home has joined hands with UNHCR for the launch of the MADE51 collection, comprising handcrafted ornaments created by refugees
This year has been an unprecedented one, with the global pandemic and political unrest in various countries, but challenging times create an opportunity for corporations and individuals to come together and help those in need.
As such, Marina Home has collaborated with UNHCR for a new MADE51 Holiday Collection to sell handcrafted ornaments created by talented refugees. MADE51 is a global initiative by UNHCR which connects refugee artists with social enterprises to facilitate the design, creation and marketing of unique home décor and fashion accessories across the world.
“It’s uplifting to see these talented women getting the opportunity to earn their own money, while learning creative and business skills, but MADE51 also creates a vital healing environment, a feeling of dignity, hope and a sense of working together to create a new community,” says Gugu Mbatha-Raw, UNHCR supporter and actress, on MADE51 in Mahama Camp in Rwanda.
The brand-new MADE51 Holiday Collection features ornaments from 16 countries and each is inspired by the cultural heritage of its maker. These beautiful objects are symbols of solidarity, empowerment, resilience and hope.
Designed for gifting, each ornament is packaged in a recyclable kraft paper gift box with a story card detailing a brief description of the UNHCR brand, refugee artisans, the meaning and inspiration behind the ornament.
Each sale will help refugees earn an income, empower talented artists, improve public support for refugees and increase visibility for UNHCR as an institution.
The MADE51 Holiday collection is sold exclusively in Marina Home showrooms across the UAE. To learn more about MADE51 click here.
Below, some highlights from the collection.
Snow Leopard: Made by Afghan refugees now living in Delhi, this snow leopard, crafted from upcycled materials, is the national animal of Afghanistan. The animal is a symbol of bravery and beauty.
Blossom of Hope: Crafted by internally displaced women living in a camp in a remote area of South Sudan, this intricate glass beading represents the blossoming of hope for a brighter future for children.
Peaceful Dove: Constructed by Congolese refugees living in Kenya, the skillful freehand carving technique they use is passed from one generation to the next. The Jacaranda wood is locally and sustainably sourced and takes the shape of a dove, symbolising peace.
Proud Camel: Created by Syrian refugee women living in Jordan, the camel is a symbol of endurance, strength and persistence.