Hope for the Holidays - Handcrafting Ornaments Against the Odds
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Time to read 4 min
Explore the beauty of handcrafted refugee-made ornaments from MADE51
Imagine that you’re in a strange place far from home. You might not speak or understand the language and everything you own has been left behind. You wait in line for hours for food and meager supplies; walk miles to collect clean water and work tirelessly to keep your children warm, dry and safe in a makeshift shelter comprised of whatever materials you can scavenge.
Now imagine having the fortitude and determination to create art under those same circumstances.
That’s exactly what the artisans of MADE51 do.
“We want to use our hands, not just wait for handouts.” – Aimé, Congolese refugee artisan in Kenya + Maker of African Elephant ornament
Ten Thousand Villages is proud to partner with MADE51 and add 12 artisan-made ornaments to our popular holiday collection. Incredible representations of resilience and hope, these unique ornaments are produced under the most challenging of circumstances. We’re honored to share more about MADE51, what they do and the refugee artisans that are courageously rebuilding their lives one beautifully handcrafted piece at a time.
Currently there are over 117 million refugees – people who’ve been forcibly displaced by war, violence, disaster or persecution - across the world. Whenever refugees flee, they leave their homes and livelihoods behind and often have no choice but to rely on others, often for 15 to 25 years. The opportunity to earn a living is one of the most effective ways people can rebuild their lives, establish economic independence and regain their dignity.
Background of MADE51
Formed by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in 2018, MADE51 is an innovative, market-based program that promotes economic inclusion of refugees in global value chains. UNHCR identifies refugees with artisanal skills, helps them form artisan groups and connects these groups to experienced local social enterprise partners. Together, they develop market-ready products like these beautiful handmade ornaments. Partners from the private sector curate collections, create marketing opportunities and make products available for sale worldwide.
In partnership with the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), Made51 establishes and maintains the ethical compliance standards that social enterprise partners must meet in their work with refugees. This ensures refugees earn fair wages and work in dignified, safe conditions.
All potential social enterprise partners go through an assessment process that evaluates their workplace practices, ability to uphold UNHCR Protection principles and application of Fair Trade standards. Social enterprises that meet MADE51 criteria then go through an extensive onboarding designed to facilitate successful and ethical engagement with refugee artisan groups. UNHCR field staff and WFTO then routinely monitor social enterprises' workplace practices and provide technical support to ensure Fair Trade practices are upheld.
“I want a more peaceful environment for my family and children and they should get an education and their future be bright.” – Fatima (pictured left), Afghan refugee artisan in Malaysia + Maker of Bold Ram ornament
You + MADE51
We’re excited to present MADE51’s handcrafted ornaments - and the faith, promise and beauty of the season they represent - to our thoughtful, selective and intentional shoppers.
Here are a few of our favorites:
- · Proud Camel Ornament A charming thread and woven cloth ornament that symbolizes endurance and strength.
- · Blossoms of Hope Ornament This beautifully and intricately beaded ornament represents the hope of a brighter future.
- · Snow Leopard Ornament A whimsical design that honors the courage and beauty of the Snow Leopard, the national animal of Afghanistan.
Explore the rest of the MADE51 collection now to treat yourself and loved ones to a special gift. You’ll bring warmth and goodwill to your holidays while helping provide life-changing opportunities to people who continue to endeavor and create…even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Learn more about MADE51 story. Browse all Ten Thousand Villages ornaments.
What is MADE51 and why are these ornaments special?
MADE51 is a global initiative of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) that partners with social enterprises to support refugee artisans around the world. Each ornament is handcrafted by artisans rebuilding their lives in displaced communities, making every piece a symbol of hope, resilience and cultural heritage.
Who makes the MADE51 ornaments sold by Ten Thousand Villages?
The MADE51 ornaments sold by Ten Thousand Villages are handcrafted by refugee artisans from various countries, including Sudan, Ethiopia, Syria and Afghanistan.
What materials and techniques are used?
MADE51 ornaments blend traditional craft techniques with modern, festive design. Depending on the maker group, you’ll find:
Intricate beadwork
Hand-stitched embroidery
Felted wool shapes
Natural fibers and textiles
Each ornament is made by hand, which means no two are exactly alike.
How does buying a MADE51 ornament make an impact?
Every purchase helps refugee artisans earn fair wages, preserve cultural skills, and support their families. Because MADE51 partners with local social enterprises, your ornament contributes to stronger, more inclusive economies for displaced people—transforming a holiday purchase into meaningful support.
Are these ornaments good for gifting or collecting?
Absolutely. MADE51 ornaments are beautifully boxed, easy to gift and rich with story. They make thoughtful presents for teachers, coworkers or anyone who loves meaningful décor. Many shoppers love to collect them year after year. Each ornament adds purpose and global connection to your holiday tree.
When you choose a MADE51 Holiday Ornament from Ten Thousand Villages, you’re decorating more than your tree, you’re uplifting the hands and stories behind every stitch and bead. Celebrate the season with gifts that shine brighter because they empower refugee artisans around the world.
Shop the collection today and share a little more peace, joy and meaning this holiday.
As we look forward to celebrating 80 years of fair trade, we invite you to join us and #LiveLifeFair.
Be Part of the Good
If you're inspired by the stories behind these products, there are many ways to support this movement:
- Shop Mindfully: Look for the Fair Trade Federation or World Fair Trade Organization logos. Sites like Ten Thousand Villages make it easy to shop by product, artisan group/country or material.
- Share Their Stories: The more people learn about fair trade, the more impact we can create. Share blog posts, artisan bios and product stories on social media.
- Gift with Intention: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday or just-because gift, choose handcrafted items that carry meaning and impact.
- Advocate for Ethical Brands: Let your favorite retailers know that sustainability and fair wages matter to you.
Denise Brossman
Copywriter, Editor and Content Manager
