Women entrepreneurs showcase products at WENN Bazaar

DIMAPUR — CT Square in Chümoukedima came alive with vibrant tents in blue, yellow, white and more as more than 70 women entrepreneurs showcased a variety of items at the 3rd annual Women Entrepreneurs Network Nagaland (WENN) Bazaar, which got underway on Friday on the theme “Year of Business Governance.”

The products range from pickles to artwork, baskets, earrings, resin crafts, handmade candles, perfumes, organic fruits, coffee, pastries, local beverages like wine, thrift clothes, Boditive sanitary pads, baby clothes, traditional Naga wear and children’s books.

With WENN bazaar banners prominently displayed and a helpful WENN Helpdesk on site, it was clear what the event was all about.

Chef Loni Khing of Naga Bowl Bakery said that the bazaar stands out because it is entirely run by women. The meticulous efforts in design, setup, and customer experience are evident in every stall, all of which are visually appealing, making the experience both fun and unique for everyone.

The stalls buzzed with women entrepreneurs engaging with customers, networking, and sharing business tips. Overall, the bazaar exuded a positive atmosphere, featuring ongoing sessions in the lounge area.

Among those was a workshop on menstrual yoga for PCOS/PCOD led by Orentsani Kikon, while the schedule for upcoming sessions included jewellery-making, basic candle-making, and the art of breakfast, promising to be equally fruitful.

Resin by Achila

They offer hand-curated items made from resin (Resins are a class of organic compounds that can be solid or viscous and are either natural or synthetic). Achila Ao, Mercia’s sister, creates all the products herself, incorporating elements from nature like flowers and leaves. The versatility of resin allows for a wide range of home products such as coasters and trays, designed to beautify living spaces.

Being first time at the WENN Bazaar, they described the experience as wonderful. With numerous stalls and breathtaking items, they feel a sense of community as everyone is making a living through their crafts and skills.

They started this venture online during the COVID-19 induced pandemic as an experiment and over the years it has evolved significantly. Now, they are opening a workshop studio called “Resin by Achila,” where they sell their products and teach others about resin crafting.

“We are merging resin with other forms of art, so that others can potentially start their own businesses,” Mercia shared.

By integrating nature into their products, their appreciation for the environment has heightened.

“When we incorporate plants and flowers, we find ourselves noticing and admiring the diversity of nature more,” she shared.

Mercia also mentioned Achila’s dedication, saying that she spends considerable time in her studio perfecting each piece.

“When things don’t turn out as expected, she starts over as making mistakes is part of the process. Resin can be expensive, which can discourage some, but my sister’s perfectionism and hard work inspire me. She keeps going until she gets it right.”

Dr. Noyingbeni T Erui, founder and creative director of Erui Designs and an assistant professor, launched the initiative with a vision to empower young people and promote self-reliance.

During her time as an assistant professor, she observed that many students possessed skills and talent but lacked the right platform or mentorship to monetise them. This realisation inspired her to create a space where they could thrive in business.

Erui identified as a social entrepreneur aims to address the issue of educated unemployment in Nagaland, particularly among the youth.

“I train college students in traditional and contemporary jewelry-making as well as embroidery,” she explained adding “During our sessions, we explore our culture and learn about unique traditional motifs from different tribes.”

She believed that it is essential for young people to connect with their cultural heritage so they can share it with a broader audience.

“Our goal is to empower youth to be self-reliant, moving away from solely pursuing government jobs. While working in the public sector is important for our state’s development, we also have the potential to explore other avenues.”

Erui Designs incorporates hand embroidery to recreate traditional textile designs. Through her research, Erui discovered that each village including her own Lotha community in Pangti has a rich history of over 50 traditional textile designs, many of which have been lost.

Her initiative seeks to research and revive those designs in their jewelry and embroidery, ensuring cultural preservation.

Participating in the WENN Bazaar for the first time, Erui was excited to engage with a business platform run by women.

“It is empowering to see fellow women establishing both small and large businesses and bringing prosperity to their homes and communities,” she said.

Tasangkala Imchen, founder of Expression Life, runs a home-based production house specialising in decoupage art, curating gifts, home décor, utilities and accessories.

Imchen expressed her excitement at seeing over 70 women vendors come together showcasing their God-given talents, which instilled confidence in their endeavours.

Her creativity inspired her to start the venture, but more importantly, she is providing livelihoods for those working under her, training them to become skilled labourers.

“For me, this is my ministry,” she said.

Looking ahead, she envisioned expanding her online platform and establishing a training house for crafts in the next 2-3 years. She encouraged others to pursue their unique gifts and talents saying, “You don’t have to replicate what others do; if something inspires you and you are gifted in it, why not pursue it? I am sure the sky’s the limit.”

Later in the afternoon as the heat subsided, families began to arrive, enjoying the food and spending quality time together at the WENN bazaar.