Africa
MADE
I have been working with MADE for 3 years and loved every moment of it. MADE is a company started by Cristina and Gerson in 2005 as a response to their first visit to Kibera - a large sprawling slum in Nairobi.
I have designed 4 collections with MADE - all the materials are sourced in Kenya and created within disadvantaged communities.
Working with recycled materials such as brass, glass and aluminium sourced locally the pieces are all made by hand, every link in a chain and hammered disk and new techniques being learnt all the time expanding their skills and ability like casting and etching.
Working with a Trade not Aid philosophy the main objection is to train local artisans, improve their working conditions and set them up in business by providing tools and materials.
The craftsman receive decent living wages through the orders placed, this extra income can dramatically improve lives and ultimately rejuvenate entire communities.
Working with 5 different projects around Kenya some already established other set up from scratch by Made, all have a story to tell.
The latest collection was made inspired by north African belly dancers, the fruits and flowers of the east African forests and using the glorious colours of sea blues and buttercup yellows and jade greens of the recycled glass.