ARTISAN PARTNERS
Working towards
brighter future
in displacement
Through MADE51, refugee artisans find more than just work — they gain a support system that fosters economic independence and social inclusion. Forced displacement takes away livelihoods, stability, and access to opportunity. MADE51 tackles these challenges by connecting refugees with local artisan groups and social enterprises, giving them access to training, fair wages, and safe working conditions. The MADE51 model turns skill into opportunity, enabling artisans to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
© UNHCR/Ala Kheir
© UNHCR/Nida Mehboob
Voices of craft and resilience
Beyond their craft expertise, some MADE51 artisans also become leaders and advocates in their communities. Artisans can transition from being participants in groups to being mentors, creating a stronger support network that amplifies their voices.
Through MADE51’s Artisan Speakers Group – a global network of artisan leaders throughout the world – they inspire meaningful change by highlighting the challenges and resilience of displaced communities, their skills and talents.
Artisan groups around the world
MADE51 works with refugee artisans who face restricted work rights, economic instability, and barriers to market access. Many have endured displacement, separation from their homes, and loss of livelihood. Yet, through their craftsmanship, they reclaim agency over their futures.
By joining artisan groups, refugees gain structured support to develop skills and connect with others facing similar challenges. These groups reduce isolation, foster friendships, and create a sense of belonging. Engaging in craftsmanship also provides an avenue for creativity and self-expression, helping artisans process trauma and regain a sense of control over their lives. In some cases, refugee artisans work alongside host community artisans, strengthening social cohesion and cross-cultural understanding. The strength of these groups enables artisans to rely on each other, committed to meeting orders on time and to specification.
The income MADE51 artisans earn and the skills they gain benefit their entire community, fostering economic stability and shared growth. Learn more about some of the MADE51 artisan groups.
© UNHCR/Pedro Gomes
“We come together as women to make the beads and discuss our family background, issues, and all we go through. We build friendships with each other. Through MADE51 and the connections that they facilitate, I can speak to new people I wouldn’t have before.”
“My participation in MADE51 is highly valuable. It is giving me the opportunity to dream that I can achieve more.”
“I treasure our group of women artisans. Each and every one of them is valuable. Our group has now grown bigger and stronger. The women enjoy their handicraft and the ambience of harmony and joy which they have crafted themselves – with the warmth coming from their hearts.”
© WEAVE
The Golden Group
- Location: India
- Artisans’ country of origin: Myanmar
Skilled in ornament wrapping and beaming rings, this group works with bangles and thread to create intricate designs.
Akooshi
- Location: Ghana
- Artisans’ countries of origin: Sudan, Central Africa, Cameroon, Liberia, Togo
Specialising in coconut bowl carving and carpentry, this group uses traditional woodworking techniques to create durable and functional handmade pieces.
Archisha
- Location: India
- Artisans’ country of origin: Afghanistan
Skilled in jewellery making and crochet, these artisans craft intricate designs using zari or cotton thread, metal and brass beads.
Kalobeyei Women's Cooperative
- Location: Kenya
- Artisans’ countries of origin: Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda
Experts in beading and jewellery making, these artisans craft keychains, bracelets and tapestry pieces using thread and beads.
Beri Women's Production and Business Cooperative
- Location: Türkiye
- Artisans’ countries of origin: Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda
Specialising in sewing, embroidery and crochet, this group applies traditional handcrafting techniques to produce unique textiles and garments.
Izmir Group Bebemoss
- Location: Türkiye
- Artisans’ country of origin: Syria
Skilled in crochet, this group creates handcrafted ornaments, peace bears, and Syrian folklore-inspired toys using thread and cotton.
- Location: Türkiye
- Artisans’ country of origin: Syria
Reyhanli Women's Committee
Focusing on crochet, this group produces high-quality handmade pieces using traditional thread and cotton techniques.
Bulula Self-Help Group
- Location: Kenya
- Artisans’ country of origin: DR Congo
Specialising in wood carving, this group crafts detailed products using jacaranda wood.
RefuSHE Artisan Collective
- Location: Kenya
- Artisans’ countries of origin: DR Congo, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan
Known for tie and dye, these artisans craft vibrant textiles using natural dyes and cotton fabrics.
Muhaba Women Group
- Location: South Sudan
- Artisans’ countries of origin: South Sudan, Sudan
Experts in beadwork, particularly wire-wrapped pieces such as keychains and decorative items.
Gambella Women’s Group
- Location: South Sudan
- Artisans’ countries of origin: Ethiopia, Sudan
Specialising in beadwork, crafting decorative accessories with intricate patterns and vibrant colours.
Samar Hakim
- Location: Egypt
- Artisans’ country of origin: Syria
Skilled in leatherwork, this group produces handmade crossbody bags and other accessories.
Silaiwali Women's Group
- Location: India
- Artisans’ country of origin: Afghanistan
Focused on embroidery and upcycling, this group repurposes textiles into beautifully handcrafted pieces.
Al Sadu
- Location: Egypt
- Artisans’ countries of origin: Syria, Yemen
Practising embroidery and weaving, these artisans create textiles that honour their rich cultural traditions.
Explore more artisan stories
Features
Go deeper into the craftsmanship, people and impact behind MADE51. Explore artisan interviews, behind-the-scenes features, and insights from our social enterprise partners.
Artisan Speakers
The MADE51 Artisan Speakers Group provides a platform for refugee artisans to share their stories, expertise, and perspectives with global audiences. These artists advocate for economic inclusion, cultural preservation, and the power of craftsmanship in displacement settings.