About Us
Our Vision
The ‘Malulu vision’ promotes the bead and leatherwork of skilled artisans in Kenya together with a passion for dogs. Louise Edwards set up Malulu in 2013 selling luxury Kenyan hand beaded leather dog collars.
Louise’s parents lived and worked in Kenya during the 1960s and 70s. Although Louise grew up on a farm in England (with dogs, of course!), she developed a fascination for Africa. Her parents’ stories of their life in Kenya sowed the seeds of love for Africa at an early age.
Her parents’ exciting adventures fuelled Louise’s imagination and lured her to Africa so she could experience its magic for herself. She travelled extensively and worked in both Kenya and Tanzania for craft and charitable organisations, and as a freelance consultant.
Through these experiences, Louise came across many examples of luxury products made by skilled artisans. She witnessed first-hand how local communities, and women in particular, also benefitted. They were empowered by fair wages, good working conditions and sustainable employment.
The luxury dog collars is a happy union of Louise’s passion for promoting luxury Kenyan products with her love for dogs. And one dog in particular, her cheeky little Patterdale-cross terrier, Minnie May.
These luxury dog collars blend age-old techniques together with modern practicality. Ethical trade practices are also a keystone to Malulu’s vision. The ‘dog jewellery’ is made at a workshop specialising in bead and leatherwork. This workshop provides sustainable employment for a rural community in Kenya where employment options are limited.
The positive effects from sustainable employments filters beyond the lives of the artisans. It also benefits the local community where the artisans live with their families, educate their children and spend their money with other local businesses.
Customers support ethical trade practices with every purchase they make from Malulu. Not only that, but they help to provide a brighter future for the local rural Kenyan community where the collars are made, and beyond.
These luxury dog collars also help to preserve and develop the skills of talented crafts people for generations to come.