Meet The Kenyan Collection: A Company Promoting Economic Growth for Mothers In Kenya

By Jen Leon

The Kenyan Collection is a company that creates exquisite bead and leather dog collars, belts, and leashes handcrafted by Kenyan artisans, the Maasai Mamas. Owner Cindy Lay acquired the company from founder Joan Schultz who was hoping to retire but looking for the right buyer who appreciated the work of the Kenyan artisans and would do business in a fair and mutually beneficial way. 

“When she asked if I was interested, I said absolutely! Within a month, I was on the ground in Kenya experiencing the culture and traditions and meeting the people that The Kenyan Collection represents,” said Cindy Lay. 

The Maasai mamas find inspiration in the patterns and colors of their culture. They possess an excellent eye for trends, always creating something beautiful and distinctive. The Kenyan Collection’s leather and hand-beaded collars are special and unique finds inspired by its makers. 

Due to the success of the line and commitment to quality and availability, Cindy shifted to a private workshop run by the artisans themselves shortly after purchase with 70 Maasai mamas that bead exclusively for The Kenyan Collection.

The Kenyan Collection is a fair company that strives to promote a positive work experience to keep their employees happy and fulfilled. Anna Kindi, a Maasai mama artisan and The Kenyan Collection employee, shares that she was introduced to The Kenyan Collection by her mother, who already worked as a beader for the company.  She admits that for a long time, she admired the way her mother worked with them which made her want to be a part of the team.

“Since joining The Kenyan Collection, I have been able to raise my children better and give them the basic needs without any problems. With the money I have earned, I have been able to buy water storage containers, where I store water and now I don’t have to walk long distances daily to look for water,” said Kind. 

The Maasai mamas have increased their income, paid school tuition for their children, and have a more stable lifestyle. “Women are empowered in many ways including escaping domestic violence. We have given them solar lighting to bead at night while their kids can do homework. Before introducing solar lighting,  they would use oil lanterns which in many cases negatively affected their health. Ultimately, they want what you and I want – an opportunity to invest in and change their own future and the future of their children and is the driving force behind The Kenyan Collection,” said Cindy. 

To shop The Kenyan Collection, please visit: www.thekenyancollection.com Follow them on Instagram: @kenyancollection