Kipato Unbranded is a social enterprise that collaborates with Kenyan Jewelry Artisans, promoting their talents, skills and providing them access to bigger markets. It all began when one of the founders, Marta Krajnik spent 12 years working in the international development sector for organizations like Oxfam and the UN Environment.
She worked on HIV/AIDS related projects, capacity building, women empowerment and environmental issues. During her years working in Tanzania and Kenya she became fluent in Swahili and spent her time immersed in the local communities.
There, Marta found a common scenario in the low-income area of Kenya; low-paid, yet highly skilled artisans whose salary and livelihood depended on the whim of their powerful employers. While the jewelry industry thrived for the luxury brands there, the people that handcrafted them often did not.
So, in August 2015 Marta and four other women founded Kipato Unbranded, collaborating with local jewelry makers in Nairobi, Kenya.
This all women-run company helps promote the local artist’s true talents and skills by giving them access to larger, more fair markets.
The word Kipato is Kiswahili for “income” to highlight the social justice at the core of the company. The team ensures that their artists are empowered by the work they do and receive fair wages for it. 50% of profits from their work, whether international or local go directly to the artists, creating an income model that is sustainable and fair to them.
They are “unbranded” because they focus on jewelry made by everyday people, for everyday people- including the Kenyans and Africans, in hopes of creating an enterprise that is accessible and approachable to everyone.
Everything they make is from recycled products, their packaging and operations are eco-friendly too. This simple and ethically responsible brand has so many versatile styles to choose from.
Perfect for an upscale event or a casual Sunday afternoon with friends. There’s a level a quality and craftsmanship you can feel in every piece and knowing the story behind it makes it even more special.
To see the full collection for men and women go to KipatoUnbranded.com
and be sure to follow them on Instagram @KipatoUnbranded
If you like things artisan made, you’ll love Dunitz and Co Fair trade Jewelry too!
Until Next time…
Erin
xoxo
Check out this video below to Meet one of Kipato Unbranded’s Artisans
