Many Hands and Iowa based fair trade jewelry company, Vi Bella, recently entered a partnership to create new jobs for artisans in Haiti. Read a short summary about Eldi, a Vi Bella artisan, and how this partnership has impacted her life
Eldi Val, a resilient artisan, has found new beginnings and a sense of purpose through her work with the ViBella and Many Hands partnership. In a recent interview, Eldi shared her journey and the transformative impact this collaboration has had on her life.
Pictured above: Eldi (right) working on a bracelet during Vi Bella’s staff training
Eldi, a single mother from Maliarette, found herself facing immense challenges after her husband left her with their two sons. Despite the hardships, Eldi has always held onto her faith, finding comfort in knowing that God never leaves her side. She says, “We always hang on to God. He never leaves us. I feel this always gives me comfort.”
Pictured above: Eldi and other staff at their daily devotional
Through her work with ViBella, Eldi found a source of income and a supportive community. The artisans gather with the Many Hands’ staff each morning for devotions, where Eldi finds strength and support through prayer. She states, “I find support in prayer, I find strength, I feel God is with me. I really feel the rejoicing.”
Pictured above: Eldi poses with her cerficicate of completion after Vi Bella staff training
The opportunity to participate in the training provided by Many Hands was a turning point for Eldi. She shares, “I was feeling very discouraged. My husband left, leaving me with two kids and nothing in my hands. I had a business, but there was nothing left. I would ask God, what should I do to make a living with my two kids.” Christi Gabhart, Many Hands’ U.S. Lead of Ministry and Benevolence in Haiti, thought of Eldi and recommended her for this job.
Pictured above: Christi Gabhart poses with the new ViBella staff after orientation
Eldi feels that she is part of God’s program, and she expresses her gratitude, saying, “Now I can start to think about getting my kids in school. My kids weren’t able to go to school last year. My kids experienced so much hardship.”
Pictured above: Elirose (left) and Eldi (right) smile while at work
The impact of ViBella and Many Hands on Eldi’s life is undeniable. Not only has Edli’s spirit been uplifted through the daily devotions, she finds solace in knowing that she has a stable job to support her family, providing much-needed relief during difficult times. Eldi joyfully shares, “God did a big thing for me. When I arrived at my house, the people that sold me food for my kids on credit, I paid them. I had joy in my heart because God did this for me.”
Pictured above: Eldi (right) making bracelets, her favorite part of work
Eldi’s favorite part of her work is making bracelets. She appreciates the opportunity to use her skills and enjoys working alongside others, learning from each other’s experiences. She says, “I like to work in a group. When I can work in a group, one can learn from others.” Eldi has dreams that more employment opportunities will open up to impact the community positively. Through her unwavering faith and the support of ViBella and Many Hands, Eldi continues to find strength and hope. Her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of partnerships that empower individuals and create sustainable change within communities.
