Herby's Story and Role in Vi Bella
by Summer Brand, Many Hands for Haiti, June 17, 2024
Herby’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Vi Bella, a social enterprise that empowers Haitian artisans through meaningful work. Growing up in Pignon without his parents, Herby found solace and stability with his grandmother. But the weight of financial insecurity loomed large. When the opportunity arose to join Vi Bella, Herby knew it was a chance to change his life and contribute to his family’s well-being.
Herby and his family
Herby wasn’t entirely new to the world of craftsmanship. He had already dabbled in making necklaces to sell to visitors, so the allure of working with Vi Bella was immediate. Yet, the program offered far more than just familiarity. “I have learned so much on how to make other products,” Herby explains, “and how to produce good quality products.” This focus on quality and skill development empowers artisans like Herby to take pride in their work. The positive feedback on their creations is a constant source of motivation.
Financial security is a cornerstone benefit of Vi Bella. Herby’s income has allowed him to participate in a group savings account, a crucial step towards building a secure future for his family. “With more pay each month,” Herby shares, “I am able to enter into a group savings account so that I can save to do a future project. And provide more economic security for my family.”
The Vi Bella program fosters a strong sense of community among the artisans. Herby describes a supportive environment where artisans share their lives, thoughts, and experiences. These bonds go beyond the workplace, creating a network of encouragement and belonging.
Herby’s dedication and talent have already propelled him into a leadership role. He takes responsibility for ensuring the quality of the products, a testament to his commitment to the program’s success. “If in the future, we are able to add more artisans,” Herby aspires, “it will create a big change in their lives too.” He envisions a future where Vi Bella empowers even more artisans, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout Pignon, and all of Haiti.
Looking ahead, Herby’s primary focus is on his daughter’s education and his family’s growing needs. The stability provided by Vi Bella empowers him to plan for the future with confidence.
Herby expresses his heartfelt appreciation to the generous individuals who support Vi Bella from afar. “This is such a great vision that Vi Bella has for our community,” he says. “The artisans say they are never discouraged. This project would not be possible without your support.”
Herby’s story beautifully illustrates the far-reaching impact of Vi Bella. His newfound hope resonates throughout the community, inspiring others and creating a ripple effect of possibility. As Herby shares, “The possibility of work for local community members gives so much hope. This goes past just the person who has a job. This helps the community of Pignon. Because it creates the possibility to help others who are in need.”
By supporting Vi Bella, you are not just helping individual artisans; you are investing in the future of Pignon, one handcrafted piece at a time. Together, we can empower communities and build a brighter future for Haiti.
About Many Hands:
Many Hands is an Iowa-based nonprofit creating local and global life-transformation by strengthening families. Established in 2008, the organization focuses on six key areas for transformation, including education, agronomy, leadership development, safe homes, medical assistance, and economic development. Each year, the organization reaches at least 25,000 people through their Haitian operations, IMPACT trips, and Many Hands Thrift Markets located in Grimes, Iowa, and Spencer, Iowa. Vi Bella's partnership with Many Hands began in 2023, when we hired 7 individuals living on Many Hand's campus in Pignon, Haiti, as jewelry artisans.
Many Hands is called to transform together, to be love in action, in a broken world.