Policies & IssuesApr 11, 2022
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These 10 Designers Are Auctioning Jewels for Ukraine
The #HandinHand sale benefits World Central Kitchen, which distributes food in conflict zones.
Sheryl Jones’ 14-karat rose gold earrings with hot-pink sapphires and diamonds are part of a designer-led auction happening now to benefit the food insecure in Ukraine.
London—Ten Black designers have banded together to support the food insecure in Ukraine.
Castro, Johnny Nelson, Lola Fenhirst, Lorraine West, Marei, Matturi Fine Jewellery, Melanie Eddy, Moonymoon, Sheryl Jones, and Thelma West have launched a virtual auction called #HandinHand.
On Thursday, April 14, each jewelry brand revealed its auction jewel on its respective Instagram account.
Bidders can comment with their bid amount or send the designer a DM until Sunday, April 17 at 2:24 pm EDT. The time represents the date Russia invaded Ukraine—Feb. 24.
One-hundred percent of the proceeds benefit World Central Kitchen, which provides food in conflict zones. Currently, the organization is helping locals and immigrants attempting to flee the country who often don’t know where their next meal is coming from.
World Central Kitchen feeds all people regardless of nationality, race, ethnicity, or gender.
The organization’s donor relations manager, Xandy McKinley, said: “Anyone can come and pick up food with no questions asked. We know that disasters and crises disproportionately affect marginalized populations, and it is worth noting that people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds do come to receive a WCK meal.”
Castro gold and bronze “Dubai Wreckage-1” lock charm with gray diamonds
Johnny Nelson 14-karat gold “All Power Fist” necklace
Lola Fenhirst 18-karat brushed gold amethyst drop earrings
Lorraine West 14-karat yellow gold “Open Heart Stud Earrings” with round brilliant diamonds
Marei sterling silver “Damian” black onyx horn talisman ring
Matturi 18-karat white gold “Classic Spiky Earrings” with diamond pavé
Melanie Eddy 18-karat yellow gold faceted hoop earrings
Sheryl Jones 14-karat rose gold earrings with hot-pink sapphires and diamonds
Moonymoon 18-karat gold, sterling silver and enamel “Angel Baby” pin
Thelma West 18 karat-white and rose gold “Adaeze 6” earrings with diamonds
As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, there were reports of African immigrants in Ukraine being unable to flee the country because precedence was given to native citizens.
“My heart breaks at what is happening in the Ukraine. It is a tragic situation, especially for those facing discrimination on the ground,” said designer Castro, an American based in Istanbul who has spearheaded the #HandinHand auction.
London-based designer Thelma West added, “As a transplant from Africa to Europe, I understand the hardships one can face as an outsider, but that becomes magnified beyond comprehension in cases of conflict.
“It’s an honor to join hands with a group of like-minded creatives whom I’ve long admired, and when Castro proposed we do something, I agreed wholeheartedly.”
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