Kazuri means “small and beautiful” in Swahili. The Kazuri project began in 1975 as a tiny workshop experimenting with handmade ceramic beads, located in what used to be part of the Karen Blixen Estate (of ‘Out of Africa’ fame).

What started with just two women has grown to a workforce of more than 300. Most artisans are mothers from nearby villages. Kazuri is a member of the World Fair Trade Organisation, and they are focussed on providing regular employment with fair conditions.

Each bead and piece of jewellery is carefully made by hand and painted in rich colours. At the Hamlin Shop, you'll find a carefully curated selection of necklaces and earrings.

We are delighted to support this true African success story, which is helping to empower Kenyan women. Proceeds from this stunning range of jewellery also support the work of Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, providing free treatment for women with devastating childbirth injuries.

One of our wonderful customers, Catherine, tells us the story of her favourite earrings.

"I met my friend Pip 15 years ago when we were both working at a major maternity hospital as midwives. We have a shared passion for the work of Catherine and Reg Hamlin and we hosted a High Tea for Hamlin in its inaugural year. Pip wanted to raise $4000 towards training a midwife at the Hamlin College of Midwives. I said "in your dreams" but knew that any money raised would go to an awesome cause - we raised over $5,000 and we were blown away by the generosity of our friends!

I recently had a 'significant' birthday party, and I stated clearly on the invite NO PRESENTS! As usual Pip took no notice and gave me this beautiful pair of Fairtrade earrings from Kenya. I wasn't too mad at Pip because I knew the proceeds support the fistula patients and midwives in Ethiopia. I especially love them because they are handcrafted, supporting disadvantaged women in Kenya (and Ethiopia) as well as being my favourite colour!"

Buy yours here.