Date : 25.10.2007
Printable version

The new series of World Challenge 2007 continues to profile the 12 finalist projects and business initiatives that not only make a profit, but also put something back into the community.

The fourth programme in the series transmits on Saturday 27 October @ 1030, 2030 and Sunday 28 October @ 0330, 1330 GMT and features the following two finalists:

HIGH SWEET FASHION
Mitz - Mexico
The brainchild of Montessori schoolteacher Judith Achar, Mitz began in 2003 when a countrywide economic crisis plunged many of her pupil’s parents into poverty. Judith hit upon the idea of weaving trendy bags and accessories from recycled sweet wrappers under the name Mitz, which translates as “for you”. The products have been a huge hit in Mexico, the US and Europe with around 2000 sold each month.

HALF PRICE HYGIENE
Maka - Uganda
The price of imported sanitary pad packs puts them beyond the reach of Uganda’s poorest families. Accordingly, many disadvantaged girls skip school during their periods, causing them to fall behind in their education. Noticing the trend in the Ugandan capital Kampala, Dr Musaazi Moses set about producing sanitary pads, using locally sourced materials, at half the price. Since its foundation in 2004, MAKA sanitary pads have benefited hundreds of girls in Kampala and wider Uganda.

Viewers will be able to vote for their favourite project on the World Challenge 2007 website, www.theworldchallenge.co.uk

The winning project will receive a grant of US$20,000 from Shell to invest in its initiative. Two runners-up will each receive US$10,000. The winners will be announced at an award ceremony in The Hague, the Netherlands in December.


For more details contact bbcworldpressoffice@bbc.co.uk