gain the skills to generate additional income, and operate as a leader in her community. The living wages for women in Uganda can vary widely and often fall below what is considered a living wage. However, organizations like Akola Jewelry are taking steps to ensure that the women they employ are paid fair wages and provided with benefits that help to reach a better living standard. What differentiates this brand from others is its holistic approach to sustainability. Underwood is committed to using environmentally-friendly materials and practices in its jewelry designs, including recycled cow horns, hand-dyed raffia, pearls, and gunmetal. From creating horn pendants and earrings to using them as a decorative element in other pieces, the horn isn’t only durable and lightweight but has a unique natural pattern that adds character to each piece. One of the reasons Akola Jewelry chose to work with horns is because it is a by-product of the meat industry. The animal’s horn is removed during the butchering process and would otherwise go to waste. By using the horn, Akola Jewelry is not only creating beautiful jewelry but also making a positive impact on the environment. Moreover, Underwood ensures that the sourcing of the horn is ethically done by working with suppliers who comply with all the regulations and guidelines. Furthermore, she regularly shares Akola’s impact stories and data with the customers and partners to ensure they can see their purchases’ positive impact and to enhance transparency and accountability. “Akola is more than a brand; it’s a purpose.” 269
challenges, such as lack of access to healthcare, child care, and education for their children. Overall, this initiative helps to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the communities where Akola works. Akola’s vision is to create a female- empowered workforce that will be a strong contributor to Africa’s economic development. As the brand’s name implies, Akola means “she works” in a local Ugandan dialect. In a beautiful city along the Nile River, Jinja, Uganda, there is the Akola manufacturing company, where nearly 50 Akola women are given dignified employment and living wages. When a woman is employed by Akola, she is more likely to keep her kids in school,
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