With much emphasis placed on local handicrafts, women in the Mahausakande district are carving a name for themselves through the making of ‘Cocoshel’ products that has taken off in recent times.

In celebration of the festive season, a pre seasonal sale of the latest collection of ‘cocoshel’ accessories and household items will be held on the 1st and 15th December 2013, at Barefoot Gallery. Customers looking for environmentally friendly, trendy Christmas gifts and souvenirs will be able to choose from a wide variety of exclusive pieces.

The cocoshel craft was started in 2008 by the Women’s Group in Mahausakande under HSBC’s partnership with the Ellawala Charitable Trust to Regenerate a Tropical Rainforest in Mahausakande, Kiriella.

What started off as a microfinance project to support the livelihood's of 50 village women, has today gone commercial on the shelves of both local and international souvenir shops. The sale will be yet another opportunity to further support the Women’s Group in Mahausakande and their entrepreneurial spirit.