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The Amias Project
Fabulous Accessories "From a land far, far away..."
For centuries, the nomadic Barabaig tribe of East Africa has roamed the plains and savannas, adorning themselves with beautiful rings, bracelets, and jewelry. Through the Amias Project, the Barabaig now want to send their beautiful things and their stories around the world.
A herding, Nilo-Cushitic culture, the nomadic Barabaig migrated from the Horn of Africa to the Great Rift Valley about 3,000 years ago, settling in what is now Tanzania. They have long been a feared rival to the well-known Maasai tribe. While wealthy in cattle and spirit, the Barabaig have struggled against increasing hardship and opposition to their traditional culture. Now they seek ways to both advance themselves and to save that culture.
On one return to Tanzania, Nichole Smaglick, founder of Amias, was reunited with a wise, old Barabaig woman named Udada. She gave Nichole a bracelet and told her, “When you go home, use this to tell others about me.” With that, the idea of Amias was born.
Since then, the project has mobilized over 200 Barabaig men and women in central Tanzania to design and craft jewelry and handbags inspired by traditional fashions. The project aims to uplift and empower traditional culture. It also helps generate significant income and educational opportunities for disadvantaged communities. Amias and its fair trade mission have allowed families to find stability in a region wracked by hardship and frequent drought. More parents now send their children to school, and they have enough food in times of need. They are increasing their livestock and making plans for the future.
Amias, in the ancient language of the Barabaig, means “beautiful.” So when wearing Amias jewelry or handbags, always remember that you are wearing hope, the story of the Barabaig, and something beautiful.
We can’t think of a more worthy reason to wear these fabulous accessories! Not to mention that they are perfect for your Spring/Summer “safari” look.
Lily Lily! is proud to support The Amias Project by bringing you these amazing works of art.
Have a question about your order? Check out our store policies page for answers to the most commonly asked questions.
