PROJECT TWO MILE
MORE THAN BOLD PATTERNS AND EXQUISITE TEXTURES. THIS IS STORY, STRENGTH, AND SOLIDARITY.
Founded by, Australian based, Papua New Guinean native Maggie T Kera, Project Two Mile works with women in Port Moresby’s informal settlements—where they face some of the country’s greatest economic and social barriers. Through dignified work and fair wages, each Bilum bag becomes a pathway to economic independence and cultural pride.
BAG CHARMS
Small in size but rich in tradition, our handwoven Bilum bag charms and keychains bring a touch of Papua New Guinea’s heritage wherever you go.
Made from natural fibres and adorned with intricate details, they’re a perfect blend of craftsmanship and contemporary style.
MEET THE WEAVERS
Meet Lyma
Lyma was born in Okapa District in the Eastern Highlands Province and has since settled in 6 Mile Settlement, Port Moresby. Married with four children, she raises live chickens to help support her family, while her husband works as a security guard.
Selling chickens does not always bring in steady income, and some days sales do not go as planned. Weaving Bilums with Project Two Mile has helped fill that gap, and it is where Lyma's laughter and warmth shine through, bringing joy to those working alongside her.
The income from her Bilums helps cover her family's everyday needs, and she is grateful for the difference it makes.
Women like Lyma remind us that a second stream of income creates stability, security and peace of mind.
Meet Helen
Recently married and expecting her first child, Helen completed Year 12 before moving from the Okapa District in the Eastern Highlands Province to 6 Mile Settlement in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
This stage of her life brings real change, and having a reliable income has become more important than ever. Through Bilum weaving with Project Two Mile, Helen has found independence and pride, contributing to her household and building confidence in her abilities as she prepares to welcome her first child.
Knowing she has an income of her own gives Helen peace of mind and something steady to rely on as her family grows.
Women like Helen remind us why access to income matters.
Meet Kesha
Married with two children, Kesha grew up in the Okapa District in the Eastern Highlands Province and now lives in Six Mile Settlement, Port Moresby.
When she learned her niece was distributing yarn for Project Two Mile, Kesha did not hesitate to become involved, bringing other women from Six Mile to join her. Like many women from her home district, weaving fits naturally into daily life, done wherever she sits and talks with others. City life in Port Moresby is tough, and an income from Bilum weaving was not an opportunity she was going to miss.
The extra income Kesha earns through Project Two Mile makes a real difference to her daily life in the city, helping her family manage a little easier.
Women like Kesha remind us that when one woman finds an opportunity, she brings others with her.
MADE BY HAND, ROOTED IN CULTURE, AND DRIVEN BY WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT
Project Two Mile is a grassroots, female-led social enterprise founded with a singular purpose: to economically and purposefully uplift the lives of marginalised women by providing a global platform for their artwork and crafts.
Each Bilum bag is handmade by women in Port Moresby’s informal settlements using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. Your purchase supports their livelihoods, preserves cultural heritage, and helps women thrive on their own terms.
