Meghan Markle has recently invested in Cesta Collective, a brand that champions handcrafted bags made by a female co-operative in Rwanda. The brand’s founders, Courtney Fasciano and Erin Ryder, were brought together by a mutual friend and shared a disillusionment with the fashion industry. They decided to use their skills for good and support the art of basket weaving, which provides economic independence for women around the world. The weavers are able to work from home, caring for their families while earning a fair wage that is significantly higher than the national average salary.
Working with the female co-operative in Rwanda, Fasciano and Ryder have ensured that the weavers set the prices for their bags, allowing them to earn 500 to 700% of the national average salary. The artisans also grow the sisal used to weave the baskets themselves, and use organic vegetables to dye the material. Everything is custom done to the brand’s specifications, with the bags being finished in Sicily by leather artisans. This attention to detail and ethical production process sets Cesta Collective apart as a brand that values sustainability and fair labor practices.
Meghan’s investment in Cesta Collective reflects her passion for supporting ethical and sustainable fashion brands. The Duchess of Sussex has been a fan of the brand for its mission and values, and her investment will help the company grow and reach a wider audience. By supporting brands like Cesta Collective, Meghan is using her platform to promote socially responsible businesses that empower women and promote fair wages for artisans around the world.
The partnership between Meghan and Cesta Collective highlights the growing trend of consumers seeking out ethical and sustainable fashion options. With an increasing awareness of the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry, more people are choosing to support brands that prioritize transparency, fair trade practices, and sustainable materials. By investing in Cesta Collective, Meghan is aligning herself with a brand that is committed to making a positive impact on both the environment and the communities it works with.
Through their collaboration with the female co-operative in Rwanda, Cesta Collective is able to provide meaningful work and fair wages to women who may not have had these opportunities otherwise. By supporting handcraft and the art of basket weaving, the brand is helping to preserve traditional skills and empower women to support their families and communities. This commitment to ethical and sustainable practices is at the core of Cesta Collective’s mission, and has attracted high-profile supporters like Meghan Markle who share these values.
In conclusion, Meghan Markle’s investment in Cesta Collective highlights the importance of supporting brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry. By championing a brand that empowers women and promotes fair trade, Meghan is using her platform to promote positive change and encourage consumers to make more conscious purchasing decisions. The partnership between Meghan and Cesta Collective represents a growing movement towards greater transparency, accountability, and social responsibility in the fashion industry, and sets an example for other brands to follow suit.
