Consul General of the United States in Chennai, Judith Ravin paid a visit to Madurai on Tuesday to interact with the women micro-entrepreneurs supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Producer Owned Women Enterprises .
IKEA
IKEA is known for its Scandinavia-centric designs, but in June the Swedish homewares giant is branching out with a new collection handmade by local artisans around the world. Called Lokalt and crafted by designers in India, Thailand, and Jordan, the line will comprise textiles, decor, and ceramics pieces as part of IKEA s social entrepreneur initiative, with the goal of creating long-term employment opportunities for marginalized communities.
“LOKALT is a collection with a modern and expressive take on traditional handicraft,” Maria O’Brian, creative leader at IKEA Range & Supply, said in a press statement. “It’s full of quirky details that tell stories from the places where the products are actually made. The ceramics are giving a tribute to the Thai way to serve food, there are glimpses of everyday life in Amman in the home textiles and expressive shapes inspired by the Indian heritage in cushion cover and rugs.”