Path of Paper reycles paper into empowerment!

Path of Paper began in 2007 when Kathryn O'Grady joined the Peace Corps, after graduating from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. As a Peace Corps volunteer Kathryn was stationed in the dusty town of Iganga, in the eastern African country Uganda. While there Kathryn worked with a great non-governmental organization and was introduced to the Gemakumyino Women's Group. It was love at first sight! The women involved in the Gemakumyino Women's Group are hardworking, artistic and were waiting for the opportunity to use their abilities to improve their lives and the lives of their families. Hence, POP was born.
Path of Paper uses recycled paper to create beautiful jewelry, purses, bowls, bracelets etc. These products transform waste into empowerment and income for the lives of women in Iganga, Uganda.
When you buy from POP, you are not only are you buying a beautiful quality item, but you are supporting real women with real needs.
Thanks to our board of directors, UAOWF, and the vast network of women and men worldwide who have helped make this a reality.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Going Back

I've decided that I need to go back to Iganga. My mom and I have hit a road block in filling out the non-profit status application,plus with a full time job, I've found it hard to be as pro active about POP as I should be. But I've been working on establishing a similar business at my 9-5. I've worked with some really inspirational people and their insight has reignited my passion for the women in Iganga.
I also recently got an email from Peter Nsubuga, who was my supervisor when I was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Uganda. He told me that the political dust has settled, but that food prices have doubled in the last 3 months!! That's outrageous! Can you imagine paying double what you pay for groceries by October? Especially if you're struggling already, it must be so stressful. Plus, the rains have been delayed in coming, making growing personal crops impossible.

Anyways, my goal is to go back to Iganga in February or March of 2012. Until then, my mom and I are back onto filling out the non profit application and getting the word out about our group.
I'm praying for the women of Iganga. I hope my own selfishness won't stop me from using the great opportunity I have to help women elevate their status and their families.