UNITED ARROWS | "Bags of Hope" Supporting African Women

First in Japan to Participate in the "Ethical Fashion Initiative"

Canvas Tote Bags Supporting African Women Now Available

UNITED ARROWS has become the first Japanese company to join the "Ethical Fashion Initiative," a project launched by the International Trade Centre (ITC) with the goal of empowering women in Africa economically. Canvas tote bags born from this initiative were released on Saturday, April 27th.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Bags of Hope: Acquiring Skills to Escape Poverty Through Their Own Efforts

The "Ethical Fashion Initiative" is a project created by the International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint body of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations, to enhance women's empowerment. Under the slogan "NOT CHARITY, JUST WORK," it aims to foster economic independence rather than monetary aid. Through training, it enables people in disadvantaged regions to acquire skills and earn fair wages, empowering them to escape poverty through their own efforts.

This initiative has already garnered support from Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, Luann, and various overseas select shops. UNITED ARROWS is the first Japanese company to participate.

Canvas Tote Bag ¥4,725

Now, canvas tote bags created through the "Ethical Fashion Initiative" are available at UNITED ARROWS. Each bag is meticulously produced by female artisans living in various regions, including Kenya's slum areas and savannas, handling everything from printing to sewing and accessory processing. The design, inspired by the familiar zebras of East Africa, was conceived by ITC's product development advisor, Jeremy Brown.

These "bags of hope" are crafted by women who have gained both skills and a livelihood. We look forward to UNITED ARROWS' future endeavors alongside the "Ethical Fashion Initiative," which connects the world through fashion and brings happiness to all involved.

UNITED ARROWS Harajuku Main Store Women's Building
Tel. 03-3479-8176