HOW IT WORKS
The MADE51
Model explained
MADE51 connects refugees with the global marketplace, enabling them to earn an income, preserve their cultural heritage, and share their skills with the world. Here’s how it works:
© UNHCR
© UNHCR/Zannou Kpiti Firmin
Identify skilled refugees
Working through UNHCR and local partners, we identify to refugees who have valuable artisanal skills. These artisans often use traditional materials and techniques that have been passed down through generations, carrying with them a wealth of cultural heritage.
Partner with local social enterprises
We partner with local social enterprises (LSEs) in host countries to provide refugees with resources, training, and support. LSEs are selected based on their proven experience in design, production management, export, and marketing.
© UNHCR/Ozge Sebzeci
Design and create unique products
Refugee artisans work together with our social enterprise partners and designers to co-create beautiful, high-quality handmade products. Each piece tells a story of courage and resilience, and embodies the rich cultural heritage of the community that produced it.
Connect to global buyers
MADE51 bridges the gap between refugees and the global market by connecting with retail partners, corporate buyers and brands. These connections ensure that artisans earn a fair income and that their work reaches an international audience.
© FREE
At every step, MADE51 ensures ethical compliance and refugee protection, while also guaranteeing that each product in the collection meets MADE51 design criteria.