Karibu / Welcome
Our Story
The journey of Nanare Ushanga is the journey of our artisan cooperative - through Ubuntu, we rise together.
The Beginning
A Craft Passed Through Generations
Nanare Ushanga is the beadwork platform of Stand Up Shout Out (SUSO), an international NGO that has empowered youth and communities across Kenya since 2013. In the spirit of Ubuntu - I am because we are - an artisan cooperative of nearly a dozen women came together to craft, sell, and grow as one.
These beads carry more than beauty - they carry the stories of their families, the resilience of their communities, and the promise of a better future. Because how can I be happy when you are not? In Ubuntu, our success is shared success.
With SUSO's support, the cooperative sells through one unified platform - this shop, plus our partners in store - so every artisan benefits fairly from every sale, and together they build skills, income, and hope for generations to come.
Our Mission
"I am because we are" - Ubuntu, the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity.
Ubuntu
We craft and sell as one cooperative. Every sale lifts every artisan, because no one thrives while others struggle.
Preservation
We use sustainable materials and traditional methods, keeping alive the cultural heritage of Kenyan beadwork.
Community
Backed by SUSO, we invest in training and education for all our artisans, helping every hand build skills for the future.
Meet the Artisans
A few of the nearly a dozen hands behind the beads
Ng'endo Wanjiku
Traditional Necklaces
Ng'endo has been beading since she was 8, learning from her grandmother. She leads our jewelry team and specializes in traditional Maasai necklaces. With almost a dozen artisans under the SUSO banner, she helps the cooperative keep every craft alive.
“Every bead carries a story of my mother, my grandmother, and the women before them.”
Akinyi Adhiambo
Bags & Accessories
Akinyi specializes in beaded bags and accessories. She joined Nanare Ushanga through SUSO's community programs and now trains newer artisans in the cooperative in beadwork techniques.
“Through these hands, I provide for my children and honor my heritage.”
Jesang Ruto
Home Decor & Wall Art
Jesang creates our stunning home decor pieces. Her beaded wall art has been featured in local exhibitions. In Ubuntu spirit, she shares profits fairly with the whole artisan cooperative.
“My art is my voice. Through beads, I speak for my community.”
Your Purchase Lifts a Whole Community
When you buy from Nanare Ushanga, you're not just getting a beautiful piece of art. You're supporting an entire cooperative - a woman's education, her children's meals, and every artisan's family - all lifted together by the power of Ubuntu.
Pieces We're Proud Of
Maasai Beaded Necklace
Traditional Maasai beaded necklace handcrafted by our artisan cooperative. Each necklace features vibrant multi-colored patterns inspired by the savanna.
15 pieces left
SALEBeaded Bracelet Set
A set of 3 handcrafted beaded bracelets in traditional Kenyan colors. Perfect for stacking or gifting.
25 pieces left
Mustard Beaded Earrings
Statement earrings with mustard yellow beads, echoing the warm tones of the African sun.
30 pieces left