Backersunited
BackersUnited Uplift Foundation is an award-winning voluntary organization. It is the CSR division of Hastavik, involved in humanitarian and charitable activities for over 25 years. Since 2016, BackersUnited has adopted a focused vision of ‘Jute for Climate Action’ through its flagship project ‘Jute Story Beyond Bars.’
As a signatory member of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Network India and a proponent of the Women’s Empowerment Principles founded by UNGC and UN Women, the foundation undertakes various humanitarian and charitable activities aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), impacting over 500,000 lives with a global outreach to more than 20 million individuals.
Our Vission
To create a world where local artisans thrive as independent entrepreneurs, preserving cultural craftsmanship and contributing to a sustainable, conscious fashion industry.
Our Mission
To empower artisans by providing a global platform for showcasing and selling handcrafted products and connecting consumers with authentic, sustainable fashion.
Founder Trustee
Kumkum Sahoo
Kumkum Sahoo, the visionary Founder of BackersUnited Uplift Foundation and Hastavik, is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and sustainable development. With a diploma from the London School of Fashion, she has introduced groundbreaking fashion concepts like the spre draped saree, merging traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Kumkum’s unwavering dedication to transforming the textile industry has impacted thousands of lives, particularly in rural communities, where she champions skill development and eco-friendly practices. Her work emphasizes creating a harmonious balance between social inclusion and environmental sustainability.
Core Committees and Members
Lead Coordinator
Subhrajit Senapati
Lead Coordinator for Logistics and Training Operations, overseeing logistics, scheduling, and resource management to ensure efficient training program delivery.
Chief Visionary
Kumkum Sahoo
Chief Visionary, Fashion Mentor, and Training Strategist, leading innovation in fashion and guiding strategic training initiatives to empower and develop talent.
Operations Head
Ajit Abhinash Sahoo
Operations Head, responsible for overseeing the procurement of machinery and ensuring efficient operational workflows to meet organizational goals.
Creative Lead
Lipsa Nayak
Creative Lead, responsible for designing and implementing innovative strategies and visual concepts to enhance brand identity and creative direction.
Our Dedicated Efforts Toward Women Empowerment and Inclusion
Family support
Providing resources and guidance to strengthen family dynamics and support women in their roles.
Health benefits
Offering access to healthcare services and wellness programs for women's physical and mental well-being.
Education
Ensuring opportunities for continuous learning and skill development for women of all ages.
Leadership Program
Empowering women through mentorship and training to take on leadership roles in their communities and careers.
Community Networking
Creating platforms for women to connect, share experiences, and grow their personal and professional networks.
Financial Independence
Supporting women in achieving financial security through entrepreneurship, savings programs, and financial literacy.