"Buy a scarf, educate a girl" is the tagline for Bene Scarves, a collection of luxury scarves, the proceeds from which help educate young women in Ghana.
During Michelle Blue's sophomore year at the University of Georgia, she traveled to Ghana in West Africa for a study abroad program. While there, she discovered that many young girls were unable to attend school because the cost was prohibitive.
So in 2013, she partnered with her best friend Sasha Matthews to start Bene Scarves. The name is derived from the word "benevolent."
Inspired by African textiles, the 100 percent silk scarves are designed by a textile designer in New York City and manufactured in Atlanta. Prices start at $125.
A portion of the proceeds from the scarves go toward tuition, books, uniforms and school supplies. Inspired by the first five beneficiaries to graduate, the Akwaaba collection features a scarf made for each girl. The collection can be purchased as a set or individually.
"Along with each scarf is a quote from one of the girls we support, with a message she wants to share with the world. These words are full of wisdom and serve as a constant reminder of why we do what we do," said Blue.
Bene Scarves, which launches two collections a year, will expand to Jamaica in 2017.
Bene Scarves are available at BeneScarves.com.
