The Hands That Thread Gratitude: Alexander’s Story

Every piece of jewelry tells a story – where it was made, who made it, and the importance behind it.

The bracelet we’re sharing with our Global Pledge donors reflects the heart of Alexander – an artisan whose hands have been weaving color and meaning into each of his creations for over 35 years. Made with care and tradition, we commissioned them as tokens of gratitude, linking donors around the world to the communities they’re helping uplift.

Alexander leads a simple life, but there’s nothing quiet about his presence. His smile is warm and his energy magnetic. He’s a father of six, with children ranging from 19 to 34 years old. He has lived in Mombasa for the past 35 years, but his journey began in Kiambu County, in the central highlands of Kenya. He moved to the coast in search of opportunity, and over time built a life supporting his family through his trade.

For over three decades, Alexander has been making bracelets - colorful, intricate, and full of heart. Each morning, he boards a matatu, Kenya’s famously vibrant shared minibus, and rides 30 minutes to the beach. There, with the ocean behind him and the sun overhead, he lays out his creations for locals and tourists alike. When the rains come, the roads flood and work stalls, but still, he shows up.

His days are long and full, especially during the October to March peak season when tourism demand is high. During a busy month, he can sell 40 pieces, earning around 18,000 Kenyan shillings ($140 USD) to support his large family. Unfortunately, on slow days, he may not sell anything. Unstable work is a way of life for many Kenyans, but Alexander hustles hard to make ends meet.

The bracelet itself is a familiar sight in Kenya - beaded in red, white, black, and green, proudly featuring the Kenyan flag. It’s a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. While the design may be common, the craftsmanship is anything but ordinary. Each bracelet requires time, skill, and care, and speaks of the strength it takes to build something beautiful with one’s hands. We are honored to be part of this story with our own special design that incorporates the Shelter Equity logo.

At Shelter Equity, we believe in the power of local partners like Alexander. His bracelets aren’t just handmade - they’re hand-held reminders of how lives are connected. Just as each bead is carefully threaded into place, every person who joins our mission becomes part of something bigger. Our work is built the same way: one home, one family, one future at a time. The impact isn’t always loud; it’s steady, joyful, and deeply rooted in love. And together, we’re weaving a world where shelter, clean water, sanitation, and mobility are within reach for everyone.