Protective Face Masks with Purpose
When we visited Malawi to take part in the Orbis Challenge 2019 we couldn’t help but be impressed by the country’s natural beauty. But more than that it was the people who made us runners feel so welcome. They have so little compared to us in the Western world and yet they are prepared to give so much. They are filled to the brim with love, hope and compassion.
The UN have predicted that the impact of COVID-19 could be ‘disastrously huge on poverty-stricken Malawi’. Having spent time there exploring the local villages, running the trails and meeting the wonderful people, we find this devastating.
We just had to do something to help. Checkout our first designs here
A local enterprise
That’s why we reached out to Farida, a Malawian local who was part of the team that looked after us so well during our stay. She told us many of the locals are now not able to work. But she and her friend Edda have started selling face masks to protect against coronavirus. They’re made by her fellow Malawians, using local materials.
And look how beautiful they are! We just had to share them with you. Even better, for each mask sold, Farida and Edda are donating one additional mask to a local charity to help protect others against this unrelenting virus.
About the face masks
Each mask is made from stunning African fabric which is 100% cotton on the outside and felt on the inside. They are breathable, extremely comfortable to wear and have elastic that goes around the ears rather than the whole head. Please note though, these are not medical grade masks and do not guarantee to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. They should also be washed after every wear to avoid contamination.
As we begin to emerge from lockdown this is a time to come together and think of those for whom the horror may only be beginning. As we begin to enter public spaces again, we’ve been advised to wear face masks for protection.
Not only are these beautiful and unique, what could be better than knowing you’ve also provided a face mask for someone in Malawi who may not otherwise be able to afford one?
Stay safe. Stay protected!