Style That Gives Back: Beads For Learning

In this week’s Style That Gives Back installment, we’re focusing on a special set of bracelets. Beads for Learning, handcrafted by the Maasai artisans in Kenya, are one-of-a-kind bracelets that represent the futures of educated children in Africa. The Leakey Collection donates 100% of their profits to pay for teacher salaries in rural Kenya. What’s more beautiful than an educated child?

The Maasai come from the Great Rift Valley of Kenya and Tanzania. They are known for their vibrant clothing and colorful ornaments. Working with Philip and Katy Leakey, they

began to bead using grass as the main component. This sustainable resource is not only eco friendly, it’s readily available. These beautiful, handmade pieces of jewelry provide financial support and educational opportunities for the beaders and their children.

What do you think of these gorgeous bracelets? Post a comment!

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Style That Gives Back: I AM Charm Bracelets

Look good, do good. That’s the mantra we’re living by this summer with our Style That Gives Back series. We’re happy to be back this week with The Leakey Collection’s “I AM” Charm Bracelets. The Leakey Collection is an organization that focuses on creating work opportunities in East Africa, while maintaining both environmental and cultural integrity. Their “I AM” Bracelets don’t just look beautiful, they are designed to remind us of the important things in life.

Made from fallen branches, these bracelets symbolized important values that all women cherish. Each charm is branded by hand with a meaningful sign: Peace, Heart (which represents love), or Flower (which represents beauty).  They definitely will be a beautiful and meaningful addition to any outfit.

The Leakey Collection operates using a Fair Trade business model. They research innovative ways to use natural materials in order to create beautiful lifestyle and Fair Trade products, while also providing  employment opportunities for those in rural Kenya. Those who bead for The Leakey Collection for only two months then have the resources to educate their child for one year. In addition, all workers receive a living wage and 5% of sales are donated back into the community.

You can find these accessories on our Trend Tables at select campus bookstores. Help a worthy cause and add some color to your wardrobe – it truly is Style that Gives Back.

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