JUBE JUBE - it's not just a bag...it's a story

jube jubes – sweet, fruity candies dances in one’s imagination upon hearing these words. in fact, JUBE JUBE isn’t candy, it is a bag which represents an initiative for change in developing countries such as the Philippines. the origination for JUBE JUBE bags was from Ate Gladie, a Filipina seamstress and mother of five. she lives in the economically distressed community of Agdao, Davao City where a typical handmade purse would only sell for 100 pesos or $2.50CAD. her dresses and curtains are handmade with a family heirloom sewing machine. alongside to her dress and curtain making, Ate Gladie volunteers at the House of Jubilee’s (a church) feeding program where she met Kezia Paul and Tim Jones who were volunteering. Jones worked with Ate Gladie on a business plan, while Paul collaborated with Ate Gladie on a bag that could be sold in North America. The result: the creation of the JUBE JUBE bag. The bags are printed with bold patterns of red and green with hints of orange and blue, just like colourful jube jubes candies. with a simple round wooden handle, JUBE JUBEs are certainly a fun piece to bring along to an outing on the beach or to add a pop of colour to any winter outfit. they are now sold in Vancouver by contacting Kezia Paul via email at kezia@jubejube.ca. the profits earned from the bag will be relayed back into new creations with Ate Gladie to make her dream of a better livelihood become reality.

the founders, along with an added partner, Jessica Yee unexpectedly created this social enterprise last year upon their return from their trip in the Philippines. during their stay in the Agdao community, they became acquainted with the community and especially the youth. there, they discovered the horrid truths of an impoverished society with youth who were not able to finish school, jailed and even killed. through JUBE JUBE, the founders wish to connect “this world” to “that world” and give the families an opportunity to raise children to a good and fruitful life. verily, this could have easily been a charitable organization asking for direct donations; however, the founders chose to build their philanthropic concept into a business so that it has the ability to thrive and grow alongside the people. when one buys a JUBE JUBE bag, one isn’t just buying a mere piece of accessory or art, but buying into reality for change. it’s more than just a bag, it’s a story.

*how to buy a JUBE JUBE bag: contact Kezia Paul via email at kezia@jubejube.ca
*where you can learn more about JUBE JUBE: http://www.jubejube.ca/

-cup of red