Our Founder Named Top 25 Finalist for UN WE Empower SDG Challenge

At Deux Mains, purpose fuels everything we do, from crafting luxury leather goods that empower Haitian artisans to launching initiatives like our School Shoes Program to support children with locally made, school approved shoes. Today, we are proud to share that our founder, Julie Colombino-Billingham, has been named one of the Top 25 Finalists for the 2025 UN WE Empower SDG Challenge.

This global initiative honors women entrepreneurs who are advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative, scalable, and impactful business practices. Julie’s nomination is a recognition of her 15-year commitment to economic justice, sustainability, and dignified job creation in Haiti.

“This recognition is not mine alone, it belongs to the Haitian women and men who have built this movement with their hands, their art, and their dedication to change,” Julie shared.

The UN WE Empower Challenge celebrates women who are not just leading businesses, but changing lives. Julie’s work at Deux Mains reflects this exactly: every bag made in our Fair Trade verified factory creates local jobs, supports families, and our School Shoes Initiative, helps send vulnerable children to school with dignity and purpose.

We’re honored to see Julie’s work on a global stage and inspired to keep going.

Let’s walk this journey together, every purchase helps carry it forward.

→ Learn more about our mission
→ Shop bags that give back
→ Follow Julie’s journey with #WEEmpower2025