handbags made by tsunami survivors bring hope

Survivors of the December 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean are creating handbags that are not only a fashion statement, but offer the chance to support those afflicted by the natural disaster with each purchase. Laga Handbags, founded by Roy and Louise van Broekhuizen of the United States, works with women in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, to help them channel their creative energy into working towards a better future.

"We formed Laga Designs International to provide income for those who lost their livelihood, but what transpired is much, much more,” say Roy and Louise. “We developed a personal relationship with the people of Aceh...and we left our hearts in their homes."

These bags, that have received highly positive reviews from satisfied customers in America, make a tangible difference to the poverty that the tsunami left in its wake in Banda Aceh. Khaera has been working in the Laga workshop for over a year, saying: “since I work at Laga, I don’t have to depend on my mother or my brothers anymore. I can take care of my own needs and I’m even able to help my mother a little bit.”

Sustainable and ethical fashion has been increasing in popularity in recent years, and with good reason. As Mr van Broekhuizen points out - "if you're going to carry a handbag anyway, why not carry one that helps rebuild lives?"

Check out the whole range of Laga bags at www.laga-handbags.com.

By Jonathan Fulwell