The holidays are all about making your loved ones feel special—and what if your gifts could do even more? What if, by giving, you could help create freedom and opportunity for workers around the globe? That’s the magic of shopping products that empower workers.

Did you know that globally, more than 2 billion workers—about 58% of the global workforce—are in informal employment, often lacking access to social protection and fair wages? 

These aren’t just gifts for your friends and family. With every purchase, you're giving workers the chance to live a better life—access to fair wages, better working conditions, and the freedom to thrive. 

 

It’s a gift for them, for you, and for the world; what could we want more in a gift guide? 

Discover Gifts That Empower The People Who Make Them

Socks that Support Mental Health | Conscious Step

For the space lover who dreams of galaxies and cozy nights under the stars: These celestial socks are a snuggly companion for evenings spent stargazing or lounging with a cup of tea. But they're more than just a stylish pair—they represent the mission of Conscious Step, a brand creating products that inspire impact. Each pair supports mental health advocacy, donating $1 to NAMI to destigmatize mental illness and provide resources for those in need.

Conscious Step’s commitment doesn’t stop there. Their socks are crafted in India from Fairtrade Organic Cotton, certified vegan, and designed with low-impact manufacturing to empower workers through fair wages and sustainable practices. By supporting this brand, you're not only gifting comfort and style but also creating ripples of positive change for people and the planet.

Wine Bottle Tote | Mayamam Weavers

For the friend who always hosts with heart: This caramel-striped wine tote is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation while supporting a powerful mission. Handwoven by Mayamam Weavers, a women-led cooperative in Guatemala, each tote is crafted with care and purpose.

Beyond the beautiful design, this tote represents fair wages, on-site childcare, and education for the artisans and their families. It’s about more than just a gift—it’s about creating opportunities and preserving cultural traditions through every thread. Now that’s something to toast to.

Marcella the Bunny in Ballerina Pink Dress | Tikiri Toys

For the little one who loves to twirl and dream big: Meet Marcella, the sweetest bunny ballerina with her soft body, floppy ears, and a perfectly twirlable net skirt. She’s the perfect cuddle buddy for storytime, nap time, or endless make-believe adventures.

Marcella comes from Tikiri Toys, a brand rooted in sustainable craftsmanship and childhood joy. Each toy is handmade in Sri Lanka from natural, organic materials by workers earning fair wages in safe environments. Tikiri’s commitment to ethical practices ensures that their toys are good for both your child and the planet. 

Luci Solar Bike Light Set | MPOWERD

For the cyclist who loves a nighttime ride under the stars: The Luci Solar Bike Light Set is a thoughtful choice for evening adventures, offering a solar-rechargeable headlight and taillight that last hours on a single charge. With adjustable straps to fit any bike and dual charging options—solar and USB—it’s perfect for riders who value practicality and sustainability.

MPOWERD isn’t just about innovative products; they’re about creating opportunities. This B Corp collaborates with over 700 nonprofits to bring clean energy to communities worldwide while providing fair wages and safe working environments for their employees. By gifting Luci, you’re supporting both the workers who crafted it and the communities it illuminates. Every ride becomes part of a larger journey toward equity and sustainability.

Classic Terry Turkish Towel | Slate + Salt

For the minimalist who appreciates timeless design: The Classic Terry Turkish Towel by SLATE + SALT is a versatile, thoughtful gift for anyone who values both form and function. Whether used as a bath towel, beach blanket, or travel essential, its lightweight, quick-drying design and dual-sided craftsmanship make it a stylish and practical addition to any home.

Handcrafted from 100% Turkish cotton, this towel is more than just a luxurious essential. SLATE + SALT partners with artisans in Southeast Asia, providing fair wages and preserving traditional techniques in regions where opportunities are scarce. By gifting this towel, you’re giving more than comfort—you’re supporting artisans and their communities with every thread.

Morse Code Beaded Bracelets | Kind Karma

For the friend who wears their heart on their sleeve—and their wrist: The Morse Code Beaded Bracelets by Kind Karma are a meaningful way to share a message. Each bracelet uses delicate gold-filled beads to spell out words like "hope," "courage," or "kindness" in Morse code—or you can create a custom design with a word that’s special to you and your recipient.

But these bracelets are more than beautiful accessories—they’re part of a bigger story. Crafted by at-risk and homeless youth in Toronto, each piece supports fair wages, flexible employment, and mentorship programs that empower artisans to build brighter futures. At Kind Karma, jewelry-making becomes a therapeutic art, helping young people heal while achieving their personal goals. Every bracelet is a gift of support, encouragement, and opportunity—for the giver, the recipient, and the maker.

Labradorite Lariat Necklace | Slate + Salt

 

For the one who loves jewelry with a little extra magic: The Labradorite Lariat Necklace dazzles with a shimmering pendant that seems to dance with color in the light. Paired with a sleek satellite chain and a modern bar-and-circle closure, this piece is equal parts elegance and everyday charm.

Behind the beauty is SLATE + SALT, a brand committed to empowering artisans in underserved communities. Handmade in India, this necklace reflects the skill of its maker and supports fair wages and ethical craftsmanship. It’s a gift that celebrates both style and the hands that brought it to life.

Geetha Shibori Tie-Dye Cotton Napkins | Terra Klay

 

For the one who loves a table full of personality: The Geetha Shibori Tie-Dye Cotton Napkins add a playful, artistic touch to every meal. Hand-dyed using the traditional Japanese shibori technique, each napkin is folded, twisted, and dipped in natural dyes to create patterns as unique as their maker. This set of four invites mixing, matching, and endless compliments.

Made by Terra Klay, these napkins are more than conversation starters. They’re part of a collaboration with a nonprofit supporting differently-abled young adults in South India, offering sustainable livelihoods and preserving eco-friendly craftsmanship. Gifting these napkins means bringing purpose and creativity to the table, every time.

ABC's of Embroidery: Palestinian Embroidery Kit for Kids | Sitti Soap

 

For the kid who loves a creative challenge: The ABC's of Embroidery: Palestinian Embroidery Kit offers a fun, hands-on way to explore the rich traditions of Palestinian craftsmanship. With easy-to-follow steps, this kit encourages kids to slow down, focus, and express their creativity while learning the stories woven into every stitch.

A collaboration between Khoyoot and Sitti Soap, this kit supports women artisans in Jordan’s Al Baq’a Refugee Camp by providing fair wages and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. It’s a thoughtful gift that combines creativity, connection, and a chance to support the incredible work of these artisans.

Bong Cane Woven Natural Rattan Tray | Hathorway

For the one who loves to blend style and sustainability: The Bong Cane Woven Natural Rattan Tray is a statement of natural beauty and artisanal craftsmanship. Perfect for organizing, serving, or simply adding a bit of texture to your home, this tray is handmade from ethically sourced rattan in northern Vietnam. Its timeless design and organic warmth make it a versatile addition to any space.

Hathorway, a women-owned brand, is rooted in sustainability and empowerment. Known for upcycled accessories and zero-waste practices, they ensure fair wages and eco-friendly processes every step of the way. Founded by Jessica Phan as a way to reconnect with her roots in Vietnam, Hathorway donates 10% of profits to organizations that uplift women.

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We’re huge fans of this gift guide. Talk about quality finds, plus, every product comes with a story—stories of hardworking individuals, families, and communities whose lives have been transformed by the jobs these brands create. We love it!

Check out more gifts that empower workers here and make your holidays a little brighter for both your loved ones and the people behind the products.