Kazuri Beads, Where Kenyan Heritage Meets Global Style

Discover How Kazuri Beads Empowers Women, Celebrates Culture, And Crafts Timeless Jewelry That Tells Kenya’s Story To The World

From a humble workshop in Karen to a globally recognized Fair-Trade brand, Kazuri Beads has been putting Kenyan artistry and women empowerment on the map since 1975. With a focus on heritage, craftsmanship, and social impact, Kazuri continues to inspire both locally and internationally.

Go Places sat down with Noora Zein, Marketing and Sales Manager at Kazuri, for an insightful conversation on what makes Kazuri unique, its social mission, and its presence at platforms like the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE).

Q1. Could you kindly introduce yourself and share your role within Kazuri Beads?

My name is Noora Zein. I’m the Marketing and Sales Manager at Kazuri, and I also help with the creative design of most of our pieces. My work is to amplify our market both globally and locally, to open up new sales opportunities, and to ensure we’re creative in terms of what we offer our audience.

Q2. Kazuri Beads has grown from a small workshop in Karen into a globally recognized Fair-Trade brand. Could you share the inspiring story behind Kazuri and what continues to drive its mission today?

Kazuri started in 1975 with the main goal of helping disadvantaged women in Kenya. That remains our focus today—being a Fair-Trade and ethically responsible brand both to our communities here in Kenya and to the ones we work with internationally. We stand by fair employment and Fair-Trade.

Q3. Each Kazuri piece is handcrafted and tells a story of Kenya’s culture, artistry, and resilience. In your own words, what makes Kazuri jewelry and pottery truly unique in today’s fashion and lifestyle market?

Each piece we make is not just jewelry—it’s heritage, culture, and community. We’ve recently partnered with Kenya’s brass-making artisans, combining brass with our beads to create a perfect mix of two cultural traditions. This not only strengthens our identity but also broadens awareness of Kenya’s artistry. Customers connect with Kazuri not just for the jewelry, but for the story it carries—supporting women, Maasai communities, brass artisans, and ultimately the spirit of Kenya.

Q4. Kazuri has empowered hundreds of single mothers through sustainable employment and skill development. Could you elaborate on how this social impact continues to shape both your community and your brand identity?

Our women are our greatest strength and identity. We empower them through ongoing training programs in financial literacy, health, and wellness. For example, every month health technicians come to give advice on lifestyle and wellness. We also encourage activities like games and exercises to improve well-being. This ensures our women’s growth goes beyond employment—extending to their families and communities. Taking care of them is central to who we are as Kazuri.

Q5. As you engage with global buyers and partners this year, what new designs, collections, or collaborations is Kazuri most excited to showcase?

We’re evolving and becoming bolder with our designs. We’re creating seasonal collections, youth-focused pieces for Gen Z, and heritage designs that mothers and daughters can share across generations. Our focus is on being timeless while also keeping up with current trends. This evolution of the brand is something we’re very excited about.

Q6. Over the years, platforms like international expos and trade fairs, such as the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE), have been important in connecting Kazuri to global markets. How have these engagements helped expand your reach and strengthen your brand story worldwide?

Events like MKTE invite more people to truly understand who we are. Beyond connecting with buyers, we meet individuals who buy our jewelry simply because they love it. For example, one customer purchased over a hundred pieces just for gifting. These platforms allow us to showcase not only Kazuri but the wider Kenyan culture, since our work also involves Maasai women and brass artisans. In this way, Kazuri represents more than a brand—it represents the whole of Kenya.

Q7. Looking ahead, what exciting projects, innovations, or expansions can admirers of Kazuri expect in the near future?

Travelers and customers can expect an experience beyond shopping. At Kazuri, you can create your own one-of-a-kind piece, interact directly with our artisans, and enjoy free entertainment as part of celebrating culture. Our shop is designed to offer a seamless and welcoming experience. We also host workshops and community activities, making Kazuri not just a store but a safe haven and cultural hub.

Q8. What message or invitation would you like to share with both local and international buyers and supporters of handmade, Fair-Trade products?

Choosing Kazuri is choosing more than just jewelry—you’re supporting women, families, communities, and Kenya as a whole. We are all about Fair-Trade, women empowerment, and building Kenya together. When you buy from Kazuri, you carry a piece of Kenya with you.

Q9. Kazuri Beads has partnered with Go Places in telling its story to wider audiences. Could you share how this collaboration has supported your visibility and mission over the years?

Go Places has truly been a blessing. It has helped us connect with more buyers, reach new communities, and attract customers who may not have known about us before. Through features and exposure, new buyers have discovered Kazuri, expanding our audience and strengthening our mission.

About the Interviewee:

Noora Zein is the Marketing and Sales Manager at Kazuri Beads, overseeing creative design, global and local sales, and market expansion. Under her guidance, Kazuri continues to grow as a Fair-Trade Kenyan brand, empowering women and sharing the artistry and culture of Kenya with the world.

Interview by Nev Jiwani, Group Managing Director, Go Places

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