| Gifts of Hope from Tohoku (Northeastern Japan)
Although the Nozomi Project (a faith-based social enterprise) closed their doors in 2023, I wanted to share their story with you as it has impacted me deeply. Not to mention, their artisans are scheduled to open a new start-up business in 2024, so it’s certainly worth keeping connected.
The Nozomi Project was based in Ishinomaki, one of the areas devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. Amidst the clean-up efforts, a volunteer noticed all of the pieces of pottery on the ground–broken yet beautiful. That’s where their story begins.
Nozomi in Japanese means “hope”, which is perfect for a company that decided to turn broken pieces of pottery (and other materials) found in the wake of such devastation into gorgeous, one-of-a-kind jewelry. The team is made up of a community of women who survived the 2011 disaster, many of whom used to work on fixing fishing nets. Their skills undoubtedly shine through in their detailed work on the strong necklace strands.
Whenever I wear my Nozomi necklace or use my bookmark, I am overcome by the power of hope, and empowered to see the light even in the darkest moments. As mentioned, the Nozomi Project is no longer in business, but I urge you to follow their social media accounts to make sure you don’t miss the announcement when their new business starts up.
Based in Ishinomaki located in Tohoku (northeastern Japan), the Nozomi Project
Nozomi Project: https://nozomiproject.com/