About Diwerse
Experience creativity at the Diverse Handmade Marketplace, a vibrant community celebrating unique handcrafted treasures that showcase artisans' skill and ingenuity.
Meet our Founder and learn about the Founder's story.
Diwerse was founded by Natashya Fernando with a vision to uplift Sri Lankan artisans by connecting them to broader markets through technology. Natashya’s journey began with early experience in customer service, working at Dunkin' Donuts and later interning at Yale University’s Office of New Haven State Affairs. After earning a degree in Marketing and Communications, she joined Yale University Properties, where she managed retail properties and promoted diwerse businesses, organizing community events that enriched the local cultural landscape. This role helped her recognize the power of inclusive marketplaces, an insight that would later inspire her work with Sri Lankan artisans.
In 2019, after moving to Sri Lanka, Natashya became involved in women’s vocational programs, deepening her understanding of the challenges artisans face, including limited market access and materials. Inspired to bridge these gaps, she began a small business focused on traditional Sri Lankan products, working with local suppliers to promote authentic craftsmanship. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the need for a cohesive platform for handmade businesses, leading Natashya to launch Diwerse. This platform serves as a centralized hub where artisans can showcase their unique work, gain visibility, and secure a sustainable revenue stream, ultimately revitalizing Sri Lankan craftsmanship for a global audience.
Natashya Fernando - Founder of Diwerse
Our Vision
Diwerse is a movement dedicated to uplifting Sri Lankan craftsmanship by empowering makers and fostering a vibrant community that values handmade artistry. We aim to ensure artisans' talents reach deserving audiences, creating a brighter future for their unique creations.
Our Mission
At Diwerse, we empower Sri Lankan artisans and small businesses by providing a supportive platform to showcase their creations and connect with customers. Our mission fosters a thriving community, leveraging technology to inspire hope, create sustainable livelihoods, and celebrate handmade traditions.
Who We Are
At Diwerse, we believe in the power of creativity and community. We are a handmade marketplace that celebrates the unique talents of artisans, offering them a platform to showcase their products and connect with a diwerse audience. Our team is dedicated to supporting sellers at every stage of their journey, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
What We Do
1. Handmade Marketplace:
2. Corporate Workshops:
3. Curated Art Workshops & Experiences:
4. Art & Craft Courses:
Our sessions for the community focus on teaching traditional skills, providing in-depth training on various topics, including:
- Painting
- Crocheting
- Pottery
- Woodwork
- Stitching
- Macramé
- And more!
These courses are designed for those who want to take the time to learn these beautiful skills while reawakening their creativity. Engaging in artistic practices not only enhances dexterity but also stimulates the brain, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. By immersing themselves in these creative pursuits, participants rediscover the joy of hands-on craftsmanship and the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression. Whether you’re looking to create beautiful pieces for personal use or to sell, our courses equip you with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in the digital marketplace while appreciating the rich traditions of handmade artistry. Join us and experience the transformative power of creativity!