Meet Amani, Our Partner in Congo

Meet Amani, whose name means PEACE in Swahili. Amani is our partner in Congo who founded the sewing workshops along with his wife Amini, and together they will oversee the production and quality of The Peace Exchange products. Amani’s story of growing up in Congo is powerful, and watching him interact with the women in his community gives us hope for a path out of poverty and a future of peace.

Please watch, share with your friends and family, and consider donating to our work! We need to raise $5,500 for the remaining importing fees. Your partnership supports the women who have graduated from the sewing workshops, giving them employment to earn good wages to support their families and send their kids to school, helping break the cycle of poverty! Your donation is tax deductible through our partner, Action Kivu, a U.S. 501(c)(3).  www.thepeaceexchange.com 

Meet Amani, via the Enough Project’s “I am Congo” video series:

Click Here to Watch Video

Meet Ernata

As The Peace Exchange is working with over 40 women, all with different stories and struggles.  Meet one of them now... Ernata grew up in a small village in eastern Congo. Her story echoed that of a society where women have very little rights or value, and can be divorced without recourse for not bearing a male heir. Nine months after starting the Mumosho Sewing Workshop,she gave birth to a different dream, and graduated with a sewing machine and the skills to earn income to support her family! Ernata is a natural leader and proud to be part of The Peace Exchange. Each purchase you make supports Ernata and women like her in eastern Congo. Thank you for your partnership!

The Peace Exchange, who we are...

The Peace Exchange - Sustainable Fair Trade partners with women artisans in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Peace Exchange works with Amani Matabaro, a Congolese community builder. He and his wife began empowering and educating girls and women through sewing workshops, teaching a skill and trade to the victims of the ongoing conflict in Congo. The students graduate with a sewing machine and tools from Action Kivu, Amani's U.S. partner. Empowered to earn income for their families, there is not enough work for them in their villages. The Peace Exchange meets a great need - providing fair trade wages to the women to sell products in the U.S., and allowing the women to contribute back into their communities, send their children to school, and help break the cycle of poverty with their own two hands.

Fundraiser

The Peace Exchange is a sustainable Fair Trade organization that partners with women artisans in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Please join the conversation and learn more Sunday, Dec. 1st, 4-6PM at OKURA. For a $50 suggested donation there will be appetizers, wine, raffle, gift bags, and a silent auction to benefit the one-time fundraiser to launch The Peace Exchange into action!

The Peace Exchange works with Amani Matabaro, a local Congolese community builder. He began empowering and educating girls and women through sewing workshops, teaching a skill and trade to the victims of the ongoing conflict. The students graduate with a sewing machine and kit from Action Kivu, Amani's U.S. partner, but while the workshops create many talented seamstresses, but there is not enough work in the local communities.  The Peace Exchange meets a great need - providing fair trade wages to the women to sell more diverse products in the U.S., and allowing the women to contribute back into their communities, send their children to school, and help break the cycle of poverty with their own two hands.

If you're not able to attend, but want to connect with Congo in this way, contact Katie Bond katie@thepeaceexchange.com or mail your donation to PO Box 1372, Laguna Beach, CA 92652. 

Fair Trade Yoga Bags

Yoga Bags, hand-made by women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are being made as we speak.  I'm honored as a yoga teacher that I get to spear-head this movement.  All items are Fair Trade with proceeds going to help women and children in the Congo.  As many might not know, the Congo is called the "rape capital of the world."  Because of the on-going war and crisis in Eastern Congo - The Peace Exchange is working to help support women effected by war crimes.  The Peace Exchange is a grass roots Fair Trade movement that has partnered with two sewing workshops in Congo.  Over 40 women are employed and money earned goes to help send their children to school (as all schools in Africa require school fees) and support their families.  Join me in creating a movement.  Join me in supporting women who have been left alone.  Join me in being a global citizen and helping our friends.  The purchase of a Fair Trade Yoga Bag makes an impact far greater than you could imagine.  www.thepeaceexchange.com

Yoga does a Body Good

I am beyond privileged that yoga is my profession.  Not only do I get paid to do something I consider a hobby and a passion, I also get to help others.  Over the years, I've seen yoga make such positive changes in the lives of my students, clients, and even my own personal journey.

Yoga is becoming more and more mainstream. There's a posture and style that can be found to fit any level and format a person could desire. For those practing, keep it up.  For those curious of yoga, I want to encourage you to give it a try.  Do not be afraid if yoga is new to you... For the benefits of yoga are life-changing... Need I say more.  Namaste! 

Mother Teresa... the cat.

Mother Teresa is my cat.  I adopted her 4 years ago from the animal shelter in Laguna Canyon.  She has been with me through many ups and downs.  We have a special connection.   Most of my friends that meet her say she acts more like a dog than cat.  Mama T is always looking out for me; she's very protective and I love that about her.  It's with sadness that I write Mama T is missing.  She has always been a free, independent spirit - but this time I worry coyotes have gotten her.  Where I live the coyotes are on the prawl this season.  My hope is that is she safe somewhere and will return to me.  I love this cat! If seen, please email me: katie@thepeaceexchange.com

St Patricks Day

St Patty's Day has me thinking... I'm reflecting on my trip to Ireland.  In 2009/2010 I went to the Celtic land with two of my close friends.  The trip was great.  I always said I'd go back.  Now, I'm looking at pictures of that trip and hope to see the beautiful country again sooner than later. 
I love the people, the pubs, the green, and the culture.  Currently I'm reading two books (both given to me by my friend I traveled to Ireland with) 'Anam Cara' and 'Wise Irish Women'.  They offer great insights to Irish life, Irish wisdom, Irish poetry, and the beauty of friendship. 
Here's a little Irish Blessing from 'Anam Cara'
  May the light of your soul guide you.
  May the light of your sould bless the work you do with the secret love and warmth of your heart.
  May you see what you do the beauty of your own soul.
  May the sacredness of your work bring you healing, light, and renewal to those who work with you and to those who see and receive your work.
  May you work never weary you.
  May it release within you wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration, and excitement.
  May you be present in what you do.
  May you never become lost in the bland absences.
  May the day never burden.
  May dawn find you awake and alert, approaching your new day with dreams, possibilities, and promises.
  May evening find you gracious and fulfilled.
  May you go into the night blessed, sheltered, and protected.
  May your soul calm, console, and renew you.

Happy St Patrick's Day!

Sadness

Sadness is a funny thing. It can roll in with no warning, like a surprise thunder storm on a sunny day. Why the rain? Why the tears. As water gives life and is needed for growth... The same can be said about tears. In this moment I'm deeply sad. Waves of emotion are rolling in. Today my inner ocean is not calm. Like a crashing sea - An internal storm. I've lost something dear to my heart.
Deep sadness helps one appreciate moments of ease and joy. I know the calm will come. But now I sit in the deep blue... To embrace the moment and be present is a noble thing. To be present can be very peaceful, yet it can also be hard.  It is said that one must experience pain to know joy. Happiness is a part of life just as is sadness. We can not have one without the other. But why does the sadness hurt so? Maybe a life lesson, maybe a time for growth... A chance to learn and move on, holding in my heart both joy and sadness.

Israel

I was not expecting to be surprised at how much I liked this country. It's beautiful. From the coast to the beautiful desert mountains to Jerusalem... Stunning! I find The Dead Sea fascinating. In Israel, the people are friendly and even fashionable. When arriving in Jerusalem all of my senses were over taken. There is the Old City where the street markets are to die for. Then you have Mt Zion, Mt Sinai, The Jewish Quarter, The 12 Stations of the Cross, Via Dolorosa, The Western Wall... Literally I could go on and on. Jerusalem offers to much to see and it's just one city in Israel. There is also Tel Aviv and coastal cities like Eliat. History runs deep in this region. Religions are varied from Jewish to Muslim to Christian. Languages spoken and written within the area are Hebrew, Arabic, and English - it's common to see a street sign with all 3 languages. I feel like Israel represents the old and the new all in one. Tradition meets modern lifestyles. It has it all from cobblestone streets to street graffiti to diamonds. I want to return...and not only because they offer the best hummus I've ever tasted in my life! Honestly, this is a place a I will visit again and bring my loved ones with me... It's that amazing! Some of my favorite photos were taken while walking the streets in Jerusalem. Enjoy...

The Dead Sea

A place like no other. Honestly, I live by the ocean and I've never seen anything like this before in my lifetime. Located on the coast of Israel, The Dead Sea is famous for its richness in minerals. People come from all over the world to soak in this water. High in salt, known for this amazing mud it produces, and rich in so many other minerals it's no wonder Dead Sea spa products are sold everywhere, yes practically everywhere. The water is a combination of blues, greens, and turquoise so bright and stunning. It is said that the waters of this sea are healing. Good for almost any skin condition and supposedly does wonders for the body and face. When entering the water locals recommend that you be over 16 and not stay in for longer than 20 minutes. All I can say is this... I can't wait to return. The Dead Sea is truly amazing!!!

Camels and Pyramids

A city of 22 million people and we are at the pyramids alone... A dream I tell you!
The day started out uncertain as it often does when traveling, yet ended amazing!
Madonna and MacGuiver were our trusted camels taking us through the desert.
The most hilarious was the camel ride through the market on the way to the pyramids. Picture a blonde girl in pig-tails being let through a market on a camel with her Serbian friend. All the women are in black burkas and staring. It was crazy, chaotic... like a funny move seen! I couldn't stop cussing, which only made matters worse! An embarrassing moment I will never forget.
There are 72 pyramids total in all of Egypt. The time was priceless; our own private day.
We were being led into the dessert by two Egyptian guides. One of which had 2 wives. They allowed us to climb the pyramids. The pyramids are made of 2 different rocks (granite and alabaster). The stones are huge. Our guides gave us some granite and alabaster rocks from both pyramids. Felt so lucky. Here we are at one of the 7 wonders of the world all by ourselves. Allowed to treat the pyramids as our own playground. Never in my wildest dreams did I think they'd let me do yoga poses and climb on the pyramids. A dream come true I tell you!

Egyptians

Smoke. Drink tea. Are very friendly. Drive like crazy. Walk in front of fast cars not thinking about their lives being put in danger (no joke!) 70% of the population is Muslim. Most women wear full traditional burkas. Masques are everywhere. Prayer five times a day is the common chanting sound in the country. Graffiti is seen in most areas . Tradition flat bread sold on the street is typical in town. For transportation there are cars, mopeds, 2 men riding a motorcycle with no helmets is the norm, men on horses or using horse and carriage. Fresh produce, especially bananas are sold on the street. You see men out and about more than women. Even in the masques, it's mainly men. Women are recommended to stay and pray at home but if they do enter the holy place, there is a separate place for them to pray and they must be fully covered. I went to visit a temple with my male friend who was allowed to enter in jeans and t-shirt, I was required to wear a full covering. It was bright green. While I respect culture, needless to say I was not happy at the restrictions placed on women. It felt very demeaning. I looked like fucking Kermit the Frog just because I was a bloody woman. Culturally I respect it, but as a free woman it was very hard to be judged against just because I'm female. While I love love love Egypt, I could not follow the Muslim tradition and it's great that not all women do. Freedom of religion is practiced in this country. Cairo is very liberal, yet many still follow the Muslim faith.
I had the opportunity to see a typical Egyptian wedding and funeral... The beginning of a season and the end of another. Both eye-opening. The wedding was a full party. The bride wore a hot pink wedding dress. She was beautiful! Egyptian women are very pretty. Her female friends were dressed so lovely. It was refreshing to see young women dressed in fashion with their dark hair flowing as they danced. A fun, festive event with a lot of music.
The thing I noticed the most is that there is always things being built. Lots of projects and construction. It shouldn't surprise me really, known as a country for building the great pyramids to this day they are still building all over the city.
Most Egyptians greet you with a smile and overall so nice and helpful. I think they are beyond kind and loved my time in the country. Note...while prices are high, they expect you to negotiate. It's common every day to be working for a cheaper price. It's expected. I found that to be the most exhausting. As a blonde female I stood out, but I was always treated with kindness and respect. It was so much better than I expected. After traveling much, I can say I'm very found of Egyptians, even if culturally it's okay to have up to 4 wives!

Somewhere on the Red Sea

It's raining today. Sailing somewhere over the Red Sea. It's early. I'm one of the few up. Drinking Italian coffee and staring at the sea of dark blue. I have not felt this sick in a long time. Caught a terrible cold and have no other words to say other than I feel pretty rotten. Listening to background music in French and Italian, it's pretty nice to be one of the only Americans on the boat. Most are Italian followed by Germans then Eastern Europeans. 5 languages spoken in all. I find it very fascinating.
Today is pretty much a wash. Too cold and rainy to do anything. I'm too sick to care.
Going to try and soak in the Turkish baths and heat room to try and cure this bloody cold.
As I sit early this morning I keep thinking of all the history around me...from Egypt to Jordan to Israel where I will land tomorrow. My mind can't really take it all in. I think of all the biblical passages I grew up on. Tomorrow I'm going to walk the path of Jesus visiting the Last Supper, the tomb, the Mount of Olives. It's incredible that I get to see all of this at such a young age. Crazy cold that I have and all the aches I'm feeling, I still feel blessed. Lucky am I to be here in this moment - runny nose and all...

Cairo, Egypt

4:30am, that's when my Alitalia flight landed! Mechanical problems in Rome - just glad to be in Africa. Greeted at the airport by our hotel. Had to purchase a $15USD visa for the country. Easy process so far. Met some nice people on the plane (2 Egyptian engineers who gave us their cards and said to call them if we needed anything... We were invited to go with them to their families if we felt in danger... In danger?!) Found out that we were flying in on the 2nd year anniversary of the Revolution... Advised not to leave our hotel as protest would be happening! What?!
In bed that morning/night I hear sunrise chanting from the prayers being offered for the day. The whole city sings of this Arabic melody. I lay there and ponder what's happening. Will we be safe? Will we get to see they pyramids? My life is more important than riding a camel, yet I felt a deep disappointment that we had flown all this way to be told not to leave our hotel...
4.5 hours later we awake and ask the hotel if they can at least hire a driver and show us the pyramids (in Giza outside of Cairo), they say it's not recommended today. We smile and stupidly ask again... They agree. We're off to see they pyramids, a little nervous but more excited than anything. Sometimes in traveling adventure requires risk. There's a balance. I'd never do anything too crazy but will walk the line from time to time.
Happy to say the day was amazing! Better than could have been expected. Had our own private tour of the pyramids! Was able to climb on them... The site was empty, it was like a dream...

The WC, This is why I love Europe

When traveling people think I love Europe because of the culture, the history, the amazing wines, gourmet food, and dinners with friend that last hours... But really that all comes second to ORANGE toilet seats! The toilet experience in Europe, especially Paris is too cool. I love fashion. Europe takes fashion even into the WC and that's what I think is so amazing! After a 10 hour flight I arrive today and found myself taking a bloody photo and smiling. I also love how the doors close ALL the way in the bathroom. American, can we step up to European standards in the Water Closet department? In general the quality and standard of living is much nicer, very classy. Walking through the airport there are even nice orange leather chairs to nap on. Fashion is everywhere in Europe, and coming from a girl who spends most of her days wearing spandex...I love being surrounded by high fashion, even in the WC :)

Lunch in France

Katie, Stephanie, Shopping, Macaroons, Champagne = FUN.
I was able to make a quick stop in France on this trip and see a dear friend. When I arrived in Paris this morning snow was on the ground and it was 1-degree C outside.
Met my gal pal for a great champagne lunch where we caught up on our lives and talked about future plans. I miss her!!!!
Shopping, French bakery, and lots of hugs and kisses before I headed back to the airport.

Friendships take effort. All relationships require quality time. I'm so happy to have spent the day with a dear friend. Love her. Now I'm back at the airport awaiting my flight to Rome.

Leonardo Da Vinci

Some people say having a puppy is like having a small child. When my family got me a dog for Christmas maybe they were trying to give me a hint that I needed to start thinking about having children... This dog is wonderful! It's also a huge commitment as a single woman who loves to travel. Good for me I guess. Leonardo Da Vinci, known as Leo, has real spirit. He is such a good dog. Very social and great with people. I take him with me to all of my classes...down dog now has a new meaning. I believe in community and the support of those in one's life, so Leo is a community dog. More people known him in Laguna than they know me. I'm just that gal that owns Leo...fine by me. People love to love on this little guy. Leo was the runt of is litter. At now almost 4 months he weighs 4lbs. Here's to having a fun little new guy in my life with a big happy heart. Love Leo - Now, let's just hope my cat Mother Teresa falls in love with her new puppy brother soon...

PARIS then Pyramids

I have 7 hours in Paris. Thank God! It's one of my favorite cities in the world.
Today it is snowing in the City of Lights. I land and make my way to Stephanie, my French sister. Love her! Spent the summer with her and her family and look forward to seeing her any chance I can. We are meeting for lunch and an afternoon of shopping. Going to my favorite French store Mossimo Dutti.
Sadly I have to leave Stephie and make my way to Rome. However, girl time is precious... Shopping in Paris is priceless... Or is it!:))))
I'm so happy I feel like this bright work of art... Exploding colors on the inside.

EGYPT, Jordan and Israel

So when my best guy friend had his visa denied last summer and was not able to return to the US for a year I was sad. However, when life gives you lemons - make fucking lemonade! I often find that life can throw curve balls, but it's what we do with the unexpected that makes life interesting. I choose to find the silver lining.
My friend and I decided to meet up somewhere in the world. Over Skype we each listed the top 3 places we wanted to see Internationally. Many fun places where mentioned but EGYPT was the common thread. We researched the Middle East and found ourselves booking a cruise to Egypt, Jordan and Israel. Here's to two days of traveling. I'm flying to Paris, then Rome where I meet Rajko, and together we fly into Cairo. Here's to a fun adventure. Here's to riding camels, seeing the Pyramids, walking through Petra, and exploring Jerusalem. Stay tuned for fun travel writing and photos...