Dear Friend,

Every meaningful journey begins with a first step.

In 2004, as a 19-year-old college student, I traveled to Uganda expecting an adventure. Instead, I encountered a woman named Sarah whose strength and leadership would quietly reshape my understanding of poverty and purpose.

She was caring for 24 children with almost no resources, yet what stood out was not scarcity. It was resilience. Vision. Determination.

At first, I believed charity was the answer. Over time, I realized something deeper: lasting change requires opportunity, not aid.

Women living in poverty do not lack intelligence, talent, or ambition. They lack access to consistent, dignified employment. Without reliable income, even the most determined mothers cannot create long-term stability for their families.

That realization changed the trajectory of my life.

In 2007, I founded Akola — meaning “She Works” — with 15 women crafting jewelry under a tree. Our vision was clear: build a nonprofit jewelry brand powered by an employment-based model. Create premium, globally inspired designs that generate sustainable jobs.

Today, Akola operates through commerce. We do not sell sympathy. We create opportunity through work.

Every piece is handcrafted with responsibly sourced materials and skilled craftsmanship. Each design represents economic participation, professional growth, and generational stability.

Over the years, I have witnessed women become leaders, families gain security, and communities strengthen through consistent employment. That is the true impact of Akola.

I began this journey as a teenager. I am now a mother of three. The years have been refining, stretching, and deeply humbling. Akola has grown not because of charity alone, but because of disciplined design, committed partners, and customers who believe that work creates lasting change.

My hope is simple:

That when you wear Akola, host an event, or partner with us, you are participating in something sustainable — something built with dignity and designed to endure.

With gratitude,
Brittany Merrill Underwood
Founder, Akola