Meet Rebecca Kousky, Founder of Nest, a non-profit online boutique that works to empower female artists and artisans around the world. Using a unique combination of interest-free microfinance loans, mentoring from established designers, as well as a market in which to sell their crafts, Nest helps its loan recipients create successful small businesses. Nest instills pride of ownership, preserves ancient artistic traditions and successfully moves women from poverty to self-sufficiency.
Just two weeks after receiving her masters degree in social work, Rebecca took a huge leap of faith and started Nest. She says it was a huge risk to take but it has definitely paid off. Just one and a half years later, the site features clothing, jewelry and home decor items from more than80 designers and has loaned funds to 55 aspiring business women and artists across the world. The loan recipients, who all live in poverty-stricken areas, then repay their debt by selling their wares through the Nest boutique. "Our business model is unique," Rebecca says, "in that we try hard to be more than just a bank. We make an effort to learn about the women we work with, about their dreams and hopes and family lives."
That is so wonderful. I am going to take a look over at Nest. Thanks for sharing this!
ReplyDeletegreat post! i love hearing about women who become successful by taking a leap of faith and doing what they love! very empowering.
ReplyDeletethanks for sharing this...this is incredible! i've always been interested in doing something like this...how can people help out with her organization?
ReplyDeleteLove when shopping helps the greater good - thanks for the intro :)
ReplyDeleteThis is very inspiring. Thanks.
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