In many rural communities, opportunities for a reliable income are scarce. That’s why we’ve introduced beekeeping as a practical and empowering way for families to start their own businesses and creating a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

With simple training and ongoing support, local people learn to care for bees, harvest honey, and sell or export it — once they overcome their fear of being stung. Seeing the first jars of honey sold brings joy and confidence, a tangible reminder that change is possible when people are equipped and empowered.

What starts as a single hive can quickly grow into a sustainable source of income, as our pilot project with a local pastor in Chekovo, Bulgaria, shows. To support the work, we’ve launched our own honey label, “Daren”, producing around four tonnes of honey each year. 

Through microloans along the old Silk Road, we aim to create a variety of full- and part-time jobs, giving families lasting opportunities to support themselves.