We are proud to announce Lauren Wachtler as April’s Ambassador of the Month.  She has been with Same Sky from the very beginning and we truly could not have made it this far without her.

Lauren shares her thoughts on Same Sky and women’s empowerment:

1. What drew you to Same Sky? What makes Same Sky unique or stand out from other organizations?

Francine LeFrak is a friend and someone I greatly admire. I have been involved with Same Sky since its inception and in fact, incorporated the company for Francine. I was honored to do it after hearing about her vision and the passion she had and continues to have to change these women’s lives– women who have suffered immeasurable pain and unspeakable horror. Same Sky is unique because of Francine and her dedication and tireless efforts. It’s no small wonder that the women she has helped regard her as a gift from heaven!

2. How does Same Sky’s mission reflect your own interests?

I have long been a supporter of women and women’s issues. Same Sky gives its supporters an ability to help women achieve a degree of economic freedom. Same Sky reminds us that although we may have different dreams, we are all women under the same sky sharing a universal commitment to ensure that all women can live their lives free from abuse, free from fear and free to accept the beauty that the world offers along with their sisters throughout the world

3. What does women’s empowerment mean to you? Has women’s empowerment always been a part of your life?

Women’s empowerment means that women can work and live their lives in a world where they are treated as equals, provide for their loved ones, and feel good about themselves and what they have achieved for themselves and can achieve in the future. As a woman attorney in a traditionally male-dominated profession, I feel empowered every day by what I can achieve as a woman. I embrace the differences between women and men. I think embracing our differences makes us stronger as women and is the best way for us to work together with other women to become a true force for equality in the workplace and at home.

4. Do you have a message for the artisans? Do you have a message for our customers?

Every time I purchase a piece of Same Sky jewelry, ( and believe me, I have a LOT), or someone I know buys a piece, and tells me about it, I feel good about myself and other Same Sky supporters who share Francine’s dream. I feel good about the women who create such magnificent works of art– because the jewelry really is artwork. I wear at least two bracelets every day, and my husband is wearing the cufflinks. The jewelry is the women of Rwanda smiling on us and bringing good luck and good feelings throughout the day. Wearing Same Sky jewelry is our bond with our sisters in Rwanda and throughout the world. It reminds the women of Rwanda that they are not alone.

Lauren Wachtler is a lawyer and long-time women advocate.  We are so happy to be honoring her this month.

Interview conducted by Tania Prizio