Frequently Asked Questions

~ What percentage of a sale goes back to the women?
Almost 100%! Batsiranai is almost entirely run by volunteer work, keeping our overhead costs to a minimum, and allowing close to 100% of our sales and fundraising to return to Batsiranai.
 
~ What is the money used for?
Returns are used for many projects. Buying supplies and paying the women's fair wages is only part of the program. Funds are also used to run the kitchen, pay for school fees, and send some women to business trainings.
 
~ Is Batsiranai a 501(c)3 organization?
Yes, Batsiranai is fiscally sponsored by One World Children's Fund based out of San Francisco, making all donations tax deductible!
 
~ What does it mean for Batsiranai to be "fair trade"?
Being a fair trade and socially responsible organization has several implications including paying the women a living wage and using local, organic, and recycled materials in our products. Examples include our popular bottlecap earrings and totes made from flour mill bags.
 
~ Do all of the 100+ women work together?
The women of Batsiranai actually work at a number of locations around Harare. The founding site has the center and kitchen. Over the years as the program progressed, satellite sites began in other neighborhoods. All the women are trained to produce quality items for Batsiranai.
 
~ Has there ever been a men's group?
A pilot organization with the men, the husbands of the Batsiranai women, was attempted a number of years ago. After several years of struggling with internal difficulties, the program was ended.
 
~ Who is in charge in Zimbabwe?
A woman named Rose operates the organization from Zimbabwe, working at the original center. She is Zimbabwean and educated, making her a capable, English speaking leader of Batsiranai. In addition, Batsiranai itself is run by a democratically elected board made up of 7 of the Batsiranai artists.
 
~ How can I help?
There are many ways to help Batsiranai and get involved including donating, holding a sales event, volunteering, or interning. If you are interested in any of these options, check out our "Get Involved" tab and contact Jan Stoner at batsiranaiproject@gmail.com.