Our Values
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We Support Marginalised Communities
We seek to support and empower marginalised communities, fostering inclusivity and economic opportunities.
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We Support Women in Entrepreneurship
Empowering women in entrepreneurship and helping them support their families with their unique crafts.
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We are Sustainably Minded
We encourage our community to make thoughtful choices to prioritise sustainable materials, ethically produced goods, and long-lasting products that minimise environmental impact.
Meet our founder
Lorraine, owner and operator of Village People, is a seasoned entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist with a passion for fair trade. Her journey began on a dairy farm, where she developed a strong sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age.
Driven by a desire to make a difference, Lorraine has traveled extensively, immersing herself in diverse cultures and addressing challenges faced by communities worldwide. Her experiences in Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Bali, India, Vietnam, and Cambodia have shaped her worldview and business ethos.
At Village People, Lorraine showcases beautifully crafted products from social enterprise organizations. The webstore offers a wide selection of fair trade items, supporting artisans and promoting sustainability. Dedicated to giving back, Lorraine donates 5% of the website's proceeds to the Cambodia Charitable Trust.
Balancing her busy life, Lorraine finds solace in quiet time practicing mindfulness and meditation. She enjoys walking in nature, photography, reading and learning, and volunteering in local community.
Based in the Bay of Plenty, Lorraine appreciates the region's central location and proximity to the ocean. Her store reflects her lifelong commitment to compassion, ethical business practices, and making a positive impact on the world.
Every purchase you make directly contributes to the empowerment of marginalised producers and communities worldwide.