They want the same thing for their children that women all over the world want. Education, safety, food, clothing -- the basics. Traditionally Maasai women are master beaders and the Mamas use this skill to earn money to buy necessities for their families. Like artisans all over the world, they have a challenge finding a distribution network where they can earn a living wage for their art. Occasionally (like when we were in their village) they get to sell directly to the end-user, and to us the prices seem so reasonable, and for them, they had the best day ever. It is really gratifying to know that we have helped them feed their children that day.
Now, we have the opportunity to help them build a workshop and retail outlet so they can sell their beautiful jewelry at a fair price. Clamian has found a great location situated on the road to the National Parks. My latest project is to raise $8600 so that we can buy the land and building materials for construction. The Mamas will actually own the land and building as a cooperative -- what a unique opportunity for them!
Just think -- they will no longer have to sit on the ground to work, or haul all their materials back and forth every day, or struggle to get a fair price for their beautiful tribal art. I can only imagine what a difference that will make in their day to day lives and the lives of their families.
