In Her Words: A Note from Sidai Designs
Dear Ibu Allies,
We are Eszter Rabin and Becky Moore, directors of Sidai Designs in Tanzania. Sidai was founded in 2011, when Eszter began working with five Maasai women in a small room along a dusty road in Arusha, Tanzania. A serendipitous meeting with Becky in Eswatini in 2012 sparked a powerful partnership, and together we grew Sidai into a thriving social enterprise. By 2014, our vision came to life in the form of a dedicated Maasai Women’s Center in Arusha—home to vibrant workshops, a silversmith studio, and a retail store showcasing the artistry of the women in our circle.
Traditional Maasai beadwork is at risk of disappearing, particularly among younger generations turning to mass-produced alternatives. By generating demand for authentic beadwork, we aim to revive these traditional skills and instill a sense of pride in cultural identity. Through regular employment, creative expression, and educational opportunities, we strive to equip Maasai women with the tools to design a brighter, more autonomous future—for themselves and the generations to follow.
Building a brand centered on empowering women within a patriarchal system presents immense challenges—but it also offers the chance to drive deep, systemic change. In many Maasai communities, women have little agency. And yet, these women are the backbone of their communities—raising children, caring for the elderly, and preserving cultural traditions, often with little to no resources. Boys are given access to education, while girls—especially those from rural areas—often receive none. Many don’t speak Swahili, leaving them disconnected from public life and job opportunities. When husbands pass away, women are frequently unaware of their rights and may lose everything to their husbands’ families.
Nongera used her earnings to buy cattle—a traditional form of savings—and eventuallyinstalled solar panels at home so her children could study at night. Koko Sadera invested in home improvements and is now building a new house. These stories—and so many others—speak to the long-term impact that economic empowerment creates. It starts with income, but it evolves into dignity, education, and independence.
Our collaboration with Maasai women provides a sustainable income and also builds a bridge between cultural heritage and economic empowerment. All profits are reinvested into social programs such as education, healthcare, and leadership development—supporting women as artisans, providers, and change-makers in their families and communities. Many of our artisans have become community leaders and have sent their daughters to school—something their mothers never imagined. Their voices matter. The income they bring home speaks volumes, and those choices ripple outward.
We currently work with over 120 women, each with her own story of transformation. At first, many husbands resisted the idea of their wives working, but over time, as the benefits became visible and attitudes began to shift.
Ibu has provided a valuable platform to showcase our work, connect with a wider audience, and explore new creative collaborations. Designing custom pieces for IBU’s ethically-minded and philanthropic clientele has helped us extend both our impact and our voice. Thank you for supporting Sidai and choosing artisan goods in a world filled with fast fashion and mass production. Your purchases don’t just support a product; they preserve a heritage, uplift a woman, and empower a community.
With Gratitude,
Eszter Rabin and Becky Moore
Directors, Sidai Designs
