Anena Hope has been a great example of a woman who provides for and takes care of her family no matter what the cost.  She thinks of others more than herself and does what it takes to provide for the needs of her husband and two daughters.

Because her husband, Ivan, has been out of work for over a year, Hope has taken on the responsibility of becoming the single income provider for her household. Even with the money she is earning from 31 Bits, her and Ivan realized that as the school fees and medical fees were piling up, one income would no longer cut it. Ivan decided to enroll in a driving school in hopes that he could become a driver as a way to earn money, however, the school is very expensive. Hope worked tirelessly and completed her monthly assignment in only one week, earning the money necessary for Ivan to enroll in driving school in time for the classes to begin.

Hope’s determination and understanding that this small sacrifice would eventually benefit everyone in her family allowed her to do her part in making sure her family was going to be taken care of.

Proverbs 31:15-16. “She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day. She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden. “

It is a rare occurrence when all five of us girls are ever in the same continent, and so this week we realized it was high time for us to get a picture together!
Of course, it helps when you have an insanely talented photographer on the team, and a stylist that is too cute for words. Thank you to Trever Hoehne and Summer Watkins for an amazing day yesterday- and we can’t wait to see more!!

This past Saturday was filled with excitement and joy at the 31 Bits compound as 57 women received brand new bicycles. Up until this week, most of the 31 Bits beneficiaries have walked long distances every day to get to work. Some of them live over an hour’s walk away and many make their commute with a small child strapped to their backs.  Their long journey causes many of them to be late, sometimes affecting their production and ultimately their pay.

But Saturday marked a new day.

Each woman was given an opportunity to take out a bike loan from 31 Bits with an agreement to pay back the amount within a 6-month period.  They were able to pick out the style they preferred and the cost that fit within their price range. The bikes enable the women to not only leave home at a later time but to also arrive earlier, allowing them to work longer and ultimately increase their income. Personal transportation also allows for quick trips around town, to the market, and to visit their families in the surrounding villages without paying for a motorcycle taxi. Owning a large asset such as a bicycle also helps boost their confidence and self-esteem knowing that they have been able to provide for themselves

Atoo Florence greeted me this morning with a big smile and firm handshake telling me, “Today I got to work in 10 minutes when it usually takes me 40 or 50. My neighbor asked me where I was going and I told her I was going to work at 31 Bits. She told me I looked smart.” Many more ladies approached me throughout the day expressing their joy and thankfulness for the bikes.

The compound now has its own parking lot for the proud owners to park their shiny two wheelers and there is an eruption of bells as the ladies announce their coming and going.

“A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.” Proverbs 31:10.

No matter their background or current circumstances, our desire for all beneficiaries of 31 Bits is for them to grow into and be identified by the characteristics described in Proverbs 31. Women that are being taught and encouraged in certain skills, besides that of bead making, in hopes that they will become Godly leaders; initiating hope, peace, and change within their communities.

Throughout the next couple months, we will be highlighting individual women who portray these “Proverbs 31″ characteristics in their day-to-day lives.

Proverbs 31:11 Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.

Asio Justine

19-year-old Justine is a hard worker and a great asset to the 31 Bits team. Dependability and honesty are traits that she is known for around the compound. Although her parents passed away many years ago, she believes that she has learned many valuable lessons from them. She remembers her mother as always being honest and desires to take after her in that aspect. When asked why honesty is so important she replied, “lies are not good things, my father was a liar and a drunk and I will not become like him.” Even our design manager, when describing her, says that she cannot even tell a lie.

Justine has been married for two years and is very much enjoying life with her husband Douglas and 1-year-old son, Nikolas. Her husband is thankful for Justine’s job at 31 Bits and gives her the respect and trust she deserves.

Justine’s reputation of honesty and reliability are a testament to her faith in God and her endeavor to live more like Jesus. She is truly a trustworthy woman and a great example to other women both young and old.

Florence is very much respected on the 31 Bits compound both for her wisdom and strength. She is often found leading the women in group-prayer and speaking passionately about God’s love and faithfulness. Along with being a role model and a strong influence in the lives of other women, Florence loves to dance and have a good time. Whether a native Acholi dance of her homeland or learning the electric slide, this lady can move! Her laugh is a familiar sound and brings instant smiles to those around her. Florence hopes to one day open a restaurant but in the meantime, her joyful personality and strong faith will continue to benefit all of those working at 31 Bits.

You can purchase them online, or at a surf store near you! We’re obsessed

Click Here for more info on our collaboration with Reef!

Brooke is rocking it in Uganda, but will be visiting us very soon… we can’t wait until we can get a shot of the 5 of us!!!

Thank you Trever Hoehne!!

Did you know that 31 Bits is sold in New Zealand?

We are so excited to introduce you to Aumoana, a surf gear and street wear store in Christchurch, New Zealand! They have been so supportive of 31 Bits, and it is such an honor to be sold in their store!!

Check out their website! ClICK HERE