Our Story

Hadassah Global Marketplace was born from a simple belief: every woman deserves the opportunity to live free and transformed, work with dignity, and provide hope for her family.

After learning about the realities of human trafficking and economic exploitation around the world, we knew we wanted to create more than a store. We wanted to create a marketplace where every purchase could help rewrite someone's story.

Today, Hadassah Global partners with artisan groups, survivor-led organizations, and community initiatives around the world to create sustainable opportunities for vulnerable women and families.

When you shop with us, you're not simply buying a gift. You're investing in freedom, dignity, and restoration.

Our Mission

To help reverse the effects of human trafficking and exploitation by creating economic opportunities, supporting vulnerable communities, and connecting consumers with products that have purpose.

We believe meaningful work creates dignity, restores hope, and helps build a future free from exploitation.

What Makes Us Different

Every purchase has a purpose when you shop with Hadassah Global Marketplace

  • Artisans receive fair wages

  • Women gain sustainable employment

  • Families experience greater stability

  • Communities are strengthened

  • Consumers become part of a larger story of restoration

We believe shopping can be an act of compassion

Meet the owners

Ayni and Dave Nicholson founded Hadassah Global Marketplace in 2021 with a shared vision to create meaningful impact through commerce. Ayni, adopted from Ethiopia alongside her sister Mercy, brings lived experience and deep conviction to the mission. Mercy now serves on the team, making Hadassah a true family endeavor. Together, they've built a marketplace rooted in purpose, where every transaction reflects their commitment to serving others and creating opportunity.

Bay: My Story of Hope

 

I joined Starfish Project with my older sister Ling. We were working together in the same brothel when the outreach team began visiting us. We looked forward to their visits every week. They shared snacks and photos of their families with us and we shared stories and dried roast meats from our hometown with them. We quickly became friends and were excited about the opportunity to work with them together at Starfish Project.

It was a scary decision to leave our old lives behind but the trust we had built with the outreach team made it easier. I love working with them everyday now.

What has touched me the most is the atmosphere of the office. It is delightful! It’s so relaxing, and everyone is so kind and encouraging here. I enjoy working here very much!

Currently I am taking English, computer, and math classes. However, English class is definitely my favorite course! My teachers are all very patient and loving. They always give me feedback and support when they see I am struggling with something, and they are quick to help me continue to improve.

At Starfish Project, I am achieving important goals I have for my life. That makes me incredibly happy. I feel so fortunate!