During a recent conversation with Business North East, Pooja Hujuri recounted the incredible journey of Meteeka Global, a lifestyle brand based in Assam that focuses on empowering local women and promoting sustainability. Meteeka Global focuses on creating handcrafted items from water hyacinth, embodying a dedication to artistry and societal impact.
Pooja started her journey at the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) by participating as a facilitator in entrepreneurship development programs. It was by means of these programs that she made connections with talented craftsmen throughout Assam. Seeing their exceptional skills in creating products inspired Pooja to create Meteeka Global, a platform that not only teaches artisans how to develop products, but also gives them the necessary skills for marketing.
Meteeka Global's distinctive products are made by beginning with the collection of water hyacinth in October when it is at its peak season. Artisans sun-dry the plants and use a manual machine to flatten them before intricately handweaving each item. This method guarantees that the skill and artistry are evident in each item. At present, the company provides a variety of products for the home and has recently expanded into furniture, receiving praise for creative designs like couches and occasional tables. Nonetheless, locating materials for the coffee tables has presented some difficulties.
Meteeka Global's mission is primarily focused on empowering women. Most of the artisans engaged in the production are women, with approximately 70 pc of the work depending on their expertise, while 20 to 30 pc is related to the water hyacinth material. Pooja acknowledged that numerous women were encountering substantial difficulties, such as receiving insufficient pay from their spouses. To tackle this problem, she offered counseling to assist them in dealing with these challenges, creating a supportive environment. This commitment to empowerment has resulted in significant growth, increasing the number of artisans from only four to a remarkable 150.
Meteeka Global sets itself apart by preserving the genuine nature of its products. Instead of excessively commercializing their products, the brand aims to maintain their authentic appeal, elevating them with methods such as burnishing. Moreover, Pooja and her team have started testing out natural dye colors, using ingredients like beetroot to incorporate vivid shades into their designs. Meteeka stands out in the market due to its dedication to being genuine and environmentally friendly.
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Meteeka Global, a startup on Amazon, has caught the eye of consumers and achieved a 45 pc revenue on the platform. Outstanding items such as the Half Moon purse showcase the brand's distinct range of products. Meteeka has recently extended its presence and influence to Flipkart, increasing its reach even more. Pooja emphasizes the collaborative spirit that defines Meteeka Global: “We are all together learning and growing.” Through her dedication and the artistry of local women, Meteeka Global not only creates beautiful, eco-friendly products but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment. The brand is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, showing that when women are given the tools and support they need, they can achieve remarkable things.
As Meteeka Global continues to grow, it remains focused on its mission of sustainability and empowerment, paving the way for a brighter future for the artisans it supports. By creating a platform that values both craftsmanship and community, Pooja Hujuri is not just building a brand; she is inspiring a movement toward a more sustainable and equitable world.
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