Nungshiba Handicrafts started in the year 2014 but I actually got involved with it deeply after my sister’s untimely demise in the year 2017. Based out of Dimapur, Nagaland, it is an all-girls team from all strata of society that makes beautiful tribal dolls, hand-made hair accessories and gift items. Our dolls are specially made with up-cycled and sustainable materials. We make use of fabric leftovers and textile scraps generated by clothing manufacturing units to make meaningful products. It is an inclusive workplace for the specially-abled too. We ensure their participation in the production process. At Nungshiba Handicrafts we encourage ideas from all and support creativity. It is an effective ecosystem that is committed to transforming unconventional ideas to the emerging business. Our handcrafted dolls and hair accessories are made by amazingly talented women who also have their own stories to tell and it just takes a little bit of handholding to tap their skills.
Like any other business venture, we have our own share of challenges and hiccups. Things aren’t always picture perfect and as women, we have so many issues to deal with outside of the workplace including family and personal responsibilities. But with time, we have built a nurturing environment where we can rely on each other and such challenges have only pushed us to become better multi-taskers. Our business is so close to our hearts because channelling creativity into our crafts offers us a way of escape from the constant pressures of everyday life.
Our innovative tribal products made from textile scraps has ensured the participation of women artisans leading to behavioural change and sustainably reducing poverty in the local community. Our tribal dolls have garnered a lot of love nationally and internationally too. We have clients from USA, Japan, Ireland, Dominican Republic, Australia and Germany to name a few. We supply to over 6 retail stores and we are excited to be branching out further with more collaboration in the months to come. We also market our products on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Our learning process has never been stagnant. Over the years, we have conducted and participated in several trainings while also hosting other women entrepreneurs and SHGs to exchange ideas and expertise. Our entrepreneurial journey has been memorable every step of the way. Risks and uncertainty only brought us closer to opportunities and bigger growth. As much as I appreciate my team for all the hard work and creativity they put in, Nungshiba Handicrafts wouldn’t have been what it is today without the support of our families, friends, well-wishers and our ever loyal customers who have supported and stood by us every step of the way. We are immensely grateful and extremely humbled by all the love and kindness we have received.
In the near future, we envision to come up with dolls that represent the unique culture and tradition of every state of the country keeping women empowerment at the heart of our business. We also look forward to a roaring business existence through systematic planning, research, commitment and information seeking. Getting to lead my team of wonderful women has given life a deeper meaning and a newer perspective. Life has actually just started to make more sense now. I am braver, stronger and limitless.
