Latoya Jones (Glass Girls Uganda)
Latoya Jones is the founder of Glass Girls Uganda, a business that upcycles glass bottles into useful products while prioritizing the employment of women.
“Prior to launching Glass Girls, I was deeply immersed in academia, pursuing a PhD in urban systems,” shared Latoya. “During this time, I delved into extensive research to understand the complexities of urban environments and the systems that shape them. My focus was on exploring sustainable development strategies, urban education, and the intersection of social/environmental issues.”
Latoya Jones
the inspiration behind glass girls
While out shopping during the pandemic, Latoya met a young woman named Lynette working at her mother’s vegetable stand. Lynette was struggling to add up the cost when making sales. Latoya brought Lynette some stationary and encouraged her to practice by keeping a log of sales—and a friendship soon formed.
Latoya’s experience and friendship with Lynette moved her to find other ways to support young girls in the community, so she began mentoring them. As part of her sessions, Latoya taught them how to cut glass bottles—and was surprised at how much the girls enjoyed the experience. In fact, they enjoyed cutting glass so much that Latoya was inspired to turn their excitement into a business—Glass Girls.
“Glass Girls Uganda took off with seven girls aged 13-16, igniting their creativity while teaching them art, business and life skills,” explained Latoya. “I never knew how much potential the endeavor had, but it’s been nearly three years and we have evolved into a business with employees, a retail shop and a successful future ahead of us.”
the waste problem in uganda
According to the National Institute of Health, 28,000 tons of waste are generated monthly in Kampala, Uganda—and only 40% of it is safely managed. Glass Girls aims to encourage sustainable waste management by accepting used glass from the community, which prevents improper disposal practices, and offering free products in return.
Glass Girls’ storefront in Uganda
After collection, Latoya’s team of six full-time and four part-time employees turn the glass into beautiful products for sale, including drinking glasses, candle holders, vases and more.
“Sustainability is at the core of our business,” Latoya shared. “We utilize every part of a bottle, creating new products and even making hot glass beads from glass pieces. Then, our products are packaged in recycled paper for eco-friendly delivery. In just two years, we have witnessed inspiring success stories of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship from our 10 dedicated employees. They are able to support their families with money for school fees and other necessities.”
glass girls in the because accelerator cohort
Latoya took part in the 2023 Cohort of the Because Accelerator where she learned how to market her product, acquire new resources and expand operations.
“I am infinitely grateful for the experience. It showed me how much work we have to do and how proud we should be of our accomplishments,” said Latoya.
“As a small business owner, we tend to wear many hats, which can weigh heavily on us and make us feel like we have to solve all of our problems. But there are people out there who are willing to help if you just ask—and through Because International I am now part of a network of like-minded individuals who are just an email or call away. My coach, Bob Potter, is now Uncle BoB and is a part of the Glass Girls family. Today, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for the future.”
In five years, Latoya hopes to employ 50 women and to offer more variety in her products. In 10 years, she plans to launch a business administration training program for young girls interested in entrepreneurship.
The Because Accelerator is a 16-week virtual training program designed to help entrepreneurs take their innovative products to the next level. Learn more about the Because Accelerator and how it helps entrepreneurs from around the world scale their businesses and create jobs in areas impacted by poverty.