MEET OUR ARTISANS

Gladys is a primary school teacher in Kitui, who enjoys teaching, her main focus being mathematics and sciences. Between preparing for classes and running a household, she holds a managerial position at Boostani.

 

She is hands-on and in charge of gathering & providing various supplies to meeting with the artisans to share design ideas. 

Catherine became a full time weaver after getting married, she uses the money earned from weaving to pay for household products, clothing and school fees.

 

During a busy month, she makes around four baskets, but when she's not busy, she'll make around six to eight baskets!

Carol's smile and laugh was infectious! On this day, she was showcasing a unique process in basket weaving. Sisal can be quite 'hairy' and after weaving a basket, it's common weavers to trim off extra sisal using a scissors. 

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Similar to all the other weavers, their income from basket weaving is used to purchase household items.

Sarah shared with us about the Merry Go Round effort she is involved in.

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The Merry Go Round is an effort women from her area started where each month they gather together to weave and share funds collected. This is an opportunity for fostering community and friendship. 

Lydia is one of the few artisans we work with from Kitui, that speak both Swahili, Kenya's official language, as well as Kamba, the rural language. 

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The day we met with her, she showed us the accuracy they use with measuring the diameter of the baskets. Although variations do occur in pattern design and coloring, we do aim to stick to our three points of size references.

Agneta's vibrant colored outfit aligns with the Kamba peoples love for color! They are always drawn to bright colors and it's often reflected in their outfits and décor.

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While interviewing Agneta, her fingers seamlessly weaved without much focus needed, it's not uncommon for weavers to walk while weaving. Weaving has become second nature to our talented artisans!

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