Handi Mart is a project developed by Kalinga Gunawardhana that can help artisans in the area by providing a better market place to sell their handmade crafts to tourists by selling their goods. Handi Mart will try to improve their lifestyle to reduce the unemployment in Bandarawela, Sri Lanka.
Local artisans are increasingly challenged in accessing a marketplace to sell their crafts and that in turn creates reduced income and causes 3rd to 4th generation craftsmen to abandon the occupation in favor of something else.
Handi Mart aims to improve the local artisans earning potential and livelihood. Providing a better market place to sell their handmade crafts such as portraits, sculptures, children's toys and home decor. Showcasing handmade goods in specific venues within the tourism sector including hotels.
The expected impact of this project includes 10 local artisans to be supported in generating $400/month in income while maintaining a generational legacy of producing quality handmade crafts and art. Handi Mart has positioned itself within the strong and growing Sri Lankan tourism sector to create meaningful connections between tourist operators, travelers and local artisans.
