“Every bead I place is a word in a story that has been told for centuries. My hands continue what my grandmother started.”
— Amina Wangari
The Story
Amina learned the art of beadwork from her grandmother in the highlands of Narok County. By the age of twelve, she could create intricate patterns that told stories of her community — each color representing a different aspect of Maasai life.
Today, Amina leads a cooperative of fifteen women artisans who create stunning beaded jewelry, home accessories, and decorative pieces. Her work has been featured in galleries across East Africa, and she takes pride in mentoring the next generation of beadwork artists.
Every piece Amina creates carries a story. The red beads symbolize bravery, the blue ones represent the sky that provides rain for cattle, and the white beads stand for peace. Through her craft, she bridges ancient traditions with contemporary design.
