Our founders at the Women@Dior program, UNESCO Paris 2024
Doing everything with creativity, love, and soul — empowering women artisans across India.
Our founders at the Women@Dior program, UNESCO Paris 2024
Minds of Meraki Foundation is a non-profit organization registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, India. We started as an initiative born out of the Women@Dior and UNESCO Mentorship Program, with an aim to empower and support small-scale women artisans from semi-urban and rural areas involved in indigenous, nature-based handicraft making in India.
The word "Meraki" means to do something with creativity, love, and soul — and that's exactly what we embody in everything we do.
Founded by four young women from diverse corners of the globe, we are united by a common purpose: to harness the creative talents of women artisans and provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.
Addressing critical challenges faced by women artisans in India.
There are about 4 million female artisans in India who earn merely $3-4.5 per day. We work to create sustainable livelihoods and financial independence.
Ever-increasing demand for factory goods is leading to rapid loss of indigenous art forms of cultural relevance. We help preserve traditional crafts.
Rigid gender norms hinder effective female business leadership and independent decision-making. We foster women's entrepreneurship and leadership.
The fashion industry generates 10% of global carbon emissions. We promote sustainable, nature-based handicrafts as an eco-conscious alternative.
Only 0.3% of venture capital funding goes to female-founded startups. We work to bridge this gap through market linkages and mentorship.
Sustainable empowerment of small-scale women artisans of India requires addressing all these interconnected challenges together.
The Meraki project emerged as a testament to the transformative impact of the Women@Dior program — a pioneering initiative born from the collaboration between UNESCO and Dior.
Rooted in the values of gender equality, social responsibility, and sustainable development instilled by Women@Dior, Meraki embodies a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and preserving cultural heritage among marginalized communities.
This project serves as a shining example of how the seeds of empowerment planted by Women@Dior continue to bloom into tangible initiatives creating positive change worldwide.
Pictured: Our founders with Maria Grazia Chiuri, former Creative Director of Christian Dior
Project Meraki in India started by three passionate young women united by a shared vision.
Director of Programs
Director of Communications
Director of Design
Three fundamental pillars form the foundation of our work.
Entrepreneurship and skill development through immersive bootcamps and mentorship for women artisans from socio-economically disadvantaged communities. Our programs cover business planning, marketing, financial management, and sustainable practices.
Access to D2C and B2B market opportunities, as well as linkages to funding sources. We provide strategic planning for business development and sustainability, helping artisans reach wider audiences.
Foster collaboration for sustainable artisan communities. Facilitate wellbeing circles and community events. Amplify unheard stories of women, crafts, and indigenous cultures while building ecosystems for gender equity.
Working with leading organizations to create lasting impact.
Together, we can empower women, preserve cultural heritage, and build a brighter future.