Bead making is one of the most finest and creative arts of all times. There are several different types of beads being invented by the jewelry manufacturing companies. Beads have seen a lot of changes in material used, shapes, and utility over the past few years. Out of all different varieties of beads one of the most eco-friendly and innovative kinds are the paper beads. Paper beads are usually made from recycling waste paper. Earlier, this concept was introduced only with the view of using discarded paper in a more constructive and useful way. However, later on this methodology took an entirely different shape that not only helps save the nature but also many poor communities of Africa.
“Mzuri beads” is the name of business cooperation in Uganda that trains and employs poor women for making handmade beads from recycled paper. It is an ethical trading company that works in collaboration with the local people of Uganda to create beautiful paper beads to be sold in the market. This is a highly beneficial program to help the underprivileged members of Uganda’s society. This organization works for the welfare of the people by giving them a chance to learn an art that can help them earn money along with gaining a reputation and recognition among other countries of the world.
Mzuri beads were found in the year 2006 by a British Lady named Kristie Maclean. She met some bead makers while working on a voluntary project in Uganda. Impressed by the talent of the bead makers and pushed by her strong will to help the people of the country she thought of encouraging this art and bringing it in front of the world. This gave birth to Mzuri beads cooperation. Nowadays, beads made by people working in this organization are loved and worn by everyone worldwide.
One of the best features of paper beads made at Mzuri, besides their vibrant colors, unique shapes and variety of sizes is that these beads are waterproof. These beads are generally paper beads varnished with a water resistant solution. This enables the beads to last long and thus, gain more favor.
Kristie Maclean has taken a highly productive and generous initiative by establishing mzuri beads and employing down trodden women. It was started with only four women but now the number has reached up to 20. Kristie has received a lot of praise and appreciation on her Mzuri project that has made a considerable difference in the lives of the people of Uganda.