If you're looking for a unique gift that not only looks good, but also directly supports the Maasai in several communities in Kenya, look no further than the Leakey Collection. It's a collection of contemporary jewelry and home decor handmade by the Maasai that live in Kenya's Rift Valley region. I'm currently wearing several strands of colorful beaded bracelets, made from Zulugrass threaded on to elastic, and they won't be coming off anytime soon. In fact, they even survived a swim intact, so I can attest for their durability as well. I'm not a big shopper, nor do I wear a lot of jewelry, but I really love this.
The Leakey Collection was started by Katy and Philip Leakey in response to a drought that hit their community with full force in 2002. They were supporting several Maasai families during these tough times and realized that offering a sustainable employment opportunity was going to be of much more value than mere handouts. So, the jewelry line was created using natural products like Zulugrass and Zuluwood for beads, and letting the Maasai work on their own schedules in their own homes. More than 1200 Kenyans are now employed and that will continue to grow, as long as we continue to buy of course. There's another drought in Kenya this year, so purchase something for the upcoming holidays, look great, and help a community in need.
More about: The Leakey Collection and The Maasai.
Image of a Maasai lady responsible for creating my lovely bracelets -- © Leakey Collection