Made by the young women at Shanzu Transitional Workshop in Mombasa, these brilliantly colored bags are very well made, practical, and are a great accent to any outfit. The lined Lamu bags are approximately 16 inches by 13 inches and have an internal coin zipper. They have a wide strap and and a zipper closure. Each is accented with the black Shanzu label. A portion of all proceeds help to provide a much needed economic boost to a group of women in one of the most depressed regions of Kenya.
All
workers producing our Fair Trade purses are paid a fair and reasonable wage for their
products.
This purse was handwoven by the wonderful women of Shanzu. Started as a Girl Guide project in Eastern Kenya in 1992, Shanzu Transitional Workshop enables young women with disabilities to gain skills that enable them to become productive and confident members of the community and society.
The girls arrive at Shanzu at the age of 17 to start a two year training program. During their stay they learn production skills and tailoring, as well as gain basic business experience and a vast array of other skills. Upon completion of the two-year training, each girl leaves with a tailoring qualification, a sewing machine and personal skills that better equip her for an independent life. Many of the graduates continue to work with Shanzu, producing products for export orders.
The girls and graduates are paid a share of the profits when their work is sold to tourists and passers-by and now internationally through fair trade organizations. All of the products carry the distinctive Shanzu patch, not hidden inside but proudly sewn where everyone can see it.
Very well made, practical, and are a great accent to any outfit!
Approximately 16" x 13" in size
Equipped with an internal coin zipper
Wide strap and zipper closure