Ember Arts partners with women in Uganda to make gorgeous jewelry from recycled paper and plastic, and has recently expanded to encompass head wraps and travel bags as well. In Uganda’s recovery from two decades of civil war, economic empowerment of women has been recognized as a vital step on the path to a robust nation. Ember partners Biola, Nighty, Stella, Grace, and many more embody this potential – and their work is both emblematic and gorgeous. We love the sweet story of connection behind the Eighty Four necklace ($29), and with my short hair I’m coveting the Plume earrings ($25) to make a major statement!

Ember highlights women building their dreams on the American side of the pond, too. Their Ember Hero campaign spotlights women working to make a difference in the world, and for one month 50% of online sales go to support the charity of their choosing. Past alumnae include projects aiming to stop sex trafficking, stand up for victims of repression in Burma, and support youth investment in the Congo. This month’s Hero is Becky Straw, whose Adventure Project identifies one humanitarian issue affecting global poverty per quarter, then funds low-tech social ventures to provide solutions.

To recap: layers upon layers of both gorgeous jewelry and ways in which women are helping each other and themselves to thrive. Let your compassion feed your creativity – and let both together help kindle the flame of women’s empowerment worldwide!