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What we do
Aame is the story of 75 courageous women from rural Andhra Pradesh, India, each with unique needs and challenges. Since 2001, these women have learned various craft skills through training provided by the Integrated Development Trust. In 2021, to overcome legal and financial hurdles, they joined forces to form a social enterprise called Aame Artisan Producer Co. Ltd.
Through Aame, these women have created a strong support system for themselves, ensuring access to housing, food, healthcare, and stable livelihoods. Aame is dedicated to fair trade practices and proudly associated with the World Fair Trade Organization and the Fair Trade Forum India.
Passionate about sustainability, these women craft eco-friendly products using natural materials like fibers, dyes, and paper pulp. Aame offers a wide range of handmade home decor and lifestyle products, with the flexibility to customize items to suit buyers' preferences. Aame is more than a business—it’s a community-driven mission to empower women and protect the planet.
Gender-inclusive leadership
Gender-inclusive leadership refers to leadership practices that actively promote and ensure equal opportunities, representation, and respect for all genders in decision-making, organizational culture, and operations. It values diverse perspectives and fosters an environment where individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
In the fair trade sector, where many artisans are women from underserved communities, gender inclusive leadership is crucial. Empowering women artisans not only enhances their financial independence but also drives equity and sustainable growth By adopting gender-inclusive leadership, organizations can amplify their social impact, unlock untapped potential, and ensure that the benefits of growth are equitably shared, fostering a fairer and more sustainable world.
Thank you, Fair Trade Forum India, for highlighting such an important issue that is urgently needed today and, more importantly, is a fair request to make
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At Aame, we are a women-led company that currently empowers specially-abled women, but we are open to including anyone & everyone who is interested. Here's how we foster gender-inclusive leadership:
1. Equal Opportunities We welcome and value contributions from everyone, regardless of gender or ability.
2. Continuous Learning We support all team members in building new skills and enhancing their potential.
3. Safe and Accessible Workplaces – Our workspaces are designed to be safe, inclusive, and accessible to everyone
4. Clear Policies and Practices-We ensure fairness and transparency through well-defined policies.
5. Inclusion and Integration We encourage collaboration and unity among diverse individuals, creating a harmonious team.
Incredible story
Jyothi's story is one of incredible resilience. Diagnosed with polio at six months, she faced major physical challenges, but she refused to be limited by them. After dropping out of school due to inaccessibility, Jyothi joined a jute crafts center in 2009, where she learned a skill and started earning her own money. Once feeling like a burden, Jyothi now supports her family and ensures her siblings receive the education she couldn’t. Her hard work and determination have transformed her life. Recently appointed as a leader of her group, she takes pride in her new role, using strategic thinking to guide others. Jyothi’s journey is a powerful example of overcoming obstacles, embracing leadership, and achieving independence. Through perseverance, she has not only changed her own life but also inspired her family and community. Her tears of joy reflect the profound difference she’s made, proving that with determination, anything is possible.
Positive Impacts of being Owners, Leaders & Practicing Fair-trade
From Margins to Mainstreams
Our women have faced discrimination due to gender, poverty, caste, lack of education, and rural backgrounds. For many, speaking up or making decisions seemed impossible. Yet, they have overcome these challenges, and have started a company of their own which is a truly remarkable achievement.
Women’s involvement in decision-making
We have seen a positive impact in empowering women and fostering inclusive leadership within the organization.
Interest in financial figures (sales, profits, expenses)
We have observed a growing interest in understanding financial aspects, promoting transparency and enhancing business literacy.
Recognition in the market (FTFI, WFTO)
Our association with FTFI and WFTO has led to increased market recognition, building trust and credibility with consumers.
Following Fair Trade practices while protecting rights
By adhering to Fair Trade practices, we ensure ethical production and maintain the protection of our rights in dealings with buyers.
Focusing on buyers who respect Fair Trade principles
We’ve seen the positive impact of working with buyers who respect Fair Trade principles, ensuring alignment with our values throughout the supply chain.
Aame Panduga
The festival of women entrepreneurs of Anantapur to commemorate the date when they started the company
