About Us
Our Story
Imagine that we could all slow down for a fraction of a moment before we bought clothing, jewelry, gifts and beauty products and actually consider the cycle of life we’re contributing to? Oceans Mingle provides you with that fraction of a moment by bringing special companies and organizations to a single online mall, allowing you the time to explore and appreciate the origin and purpose of these unique stores before shopping.
Last holiday season I was looking for a gift for my older-teen daughter. I found a company that sold Indian-styled pajama pants made by women who had recently escaped prostitution and human trafficking. It was a bittersweet moment to find a site with a perfect gift for my daughter and also to read the stories of women making the garments. I also learned that purchasing gifts at this site would contribute to the mission of Sudara (Punjammies): to help women gain dignity and freedom through having a safe place to learn a new trade in a caring, supportive environment.
The discovery of this online store led me to seek other gifts that contribute to positive life cycles. It took me hours of hunting online to find a variety of such stores that sell unique and beautiful products. I was so excited at finding them that I wanted to make it easier for others to experience these stores and have an opportunity to fulfill gift-giving rituals through a purchase that promotes social good.
I have profound respect for the founders of these companies and organizations. They have channeled their passion to collaborate with vulnerable individuals and communities around the globe to help them move towards a sustainable lifestyle. In addition to teaching or supporting a craft or trade, each store enables the growth of individuals in a variety of ways, including business skills (for starting their own businesses), health care services, financial planning, and educational opportunities for the artisans and their families. The founders consider holistic solutions and innovations that will yield long-term gains. They help raise individuals from an often vulnerable state to one of confidence, strength and capability. Success for the founders is entwined with the sustainable enrichment of the communities in which they work.
Each store shares its heart-felt mission on a unique site. They help you trace the story of a product back to the village or individual responsible for its creation. A purchase at any of these sites provides you a gift with provenance: the experience of knowing the journey of the gift.
We wish you joy in your adventure of exploring the stores and contributing to positive cycles of life change.
Contact Us info@oceansmingle.org
Gayna Williams is the founder of Oceans Mingle (a non-profit). Making life easier for people has always been her primary career focus. Initially she focused on user experience research and design for software and online services at Microsoft. After fifteen+ years she set up a career coaching business, If She Can I Can, working with women to grow their leadership presence and career. She always knew she wanted to be involved with a global mission to help women and is incredibly happy to release Oceans Mingle. Gayna is a British native, who loves living in the Pacific Northwest with her wonderful family that she enjoys exploring the world with.
Andi Bouacheria works on the strategy and creativity of Oceans Mingle’s social media presence. She is a professional architect and worked for several years in the Greater Seattle Area. She loved supporting her clients in healthcare and considering the importance and influence of design on the well-being of their patients. She now has her hands full with family life and 3 beautiful kids. Andi loves Oceans Mingle’s goal of helping to empower women and communities around the world so they can support and protect their families.
