WORDS by KATE BLACK | IMAGES SUPPLIED by MULBERRY MONGOOSE
Meet Mulberry Mongoose.
With collected snare wire, weathered wood, old coins, a sewing machine, a small collection of woodcarving tools and a genuine love for the African bush, this clutch of talented craftsmen is making a living – and a difference – in the rural village of Mfuwe, Zambia.
Their masterwork? Striking, feminine and authentic jewelry made from organic African-inspired materials: from wooden debris, feathers and bone collected in the South Luangwa valley to vintage Zambian coins and freshwater pearls set in exquisite Ethiopian silver.
After moving from the hustle and bustle of Central London to the tucked away town of Mfuwe in Zambia, Mulberry Mongoose founder Kate Wilson’s new – very rural existence – inspired her to explore her passion for artistry and her vision to help the people of the Mfuwe community.
Three years on, she works with her local team of up-skilled artisans – Rosie, Gweyn, Naomi, Esnut and Peter – to create a curious range of accessories that feel just like Africa.
What we love about Mulberry Mongoose:
- Sustainable chic: Buying Mulberry Mongoose accessories means protecting the exceptional wildlife of South Luangwa & helping its people. One collection which we truly admire is the Snare Wire Collection. These pieces are made from snare wire collected during anti-poaching patrols or cut from trapped and wounded animals in the South Luangwa valley. For every piece of snare wire jewelry sold, $5 is donated to the anti-snare patrols; $40 000 has been generated for anti-snare patrols to date!
- Heart and soul of Africa: Every Mulberry Mongoose collection is inspired by the culture and traditions of Africa or the raw nature of the African bush. We love how honestly African it is.
- Love local: In a region where unemployment is high, Mulberry Mongoose sources all their wild and wonderful materials from local vendors and employs and up-skills local people from the South Luangwa area.
Get to know the Mulberry Mongoose team and explore their unique collections here: www.mulberrymongoose.com
Location: South Luangwa Valley, Zambia
