On the 2nd day of Christmas…… Introducing Beads of Esiteti - an extraordinary social enterprise selling the intricate beadwork of nearly 300 Maasai women from 15 different villages in Amboseli National Park, Kenya. For centuries, the women of the Maasai tribes of Kenya and Tanzania have hand-crafted glass-beaded jewellery to communicate about their heritage and traditional way of life. As semi-nomadic people relying heavily on cattle, each colour bead represents a different aspect of their life and the unwavering respect they have for their livestock. In the midst of daily chores such as gathering water, cooking, milking the cows, building huts, and caring for children, the women find comfort and connection in beading together. The beads also form an important part of traditional ceremonies; it’s customary for members of these vibrant tribes to adorn themselves with elaborate beaded jewellery during times of birth, marriage, and death, to symbolise spiritual values, social status, and tribal identity. Facing pressure from the modern world and affected by climate change, the Maasai people have been forced to find new sources of income, and are now turning to their traditional beadwork as another way to support their communities. 50% of the income derived from sales are committed to the local school which is educating all the children from all the Maasai communities in Amboseli. A boarding facility has also been built for girls as they get older so they may continue in school. This also reduces early marriage and FGM. * Christmas presents? Hand made with love and the magic of the Maasai…. Stepping Stones Collections in Melbourne are stocking some of these beautiful pieces or you can purchase them from the US based social enterprise here beadsofesiteti/store/ We would LOVE you to help spread the word and assist us to support women like those in the Maasai co-operative by SHARING this post and telling people about Global Sisters. Wishing you a happy, peaceful festive season full of love x Photo of Maasai woman courtesy of Africa Schools of Kenya
Posted on: Thu, 27 Nov 2014 19:42:12 +0000
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