Kenana Down Under: Changing Lives (and Cuddly Shelves) with Every Knitted Toy
In a quiet corner of rural Kenya, something quietly extraordinary is happening.
While most of us are sipping flat whites and Googling “slow cooker recipes with three ingredients,” a group of women in Njoro, Kenya, are knitting their way toward economic freedom—one bunny, bear, and lion at a time. Welcome to the world of Kenana Down Under, where wool meets purpose, and every stitch in every knitted toy tells a story of empowerment.
Where Knitting Meets Empowerment
Founded in 1998 by the wonderful Patricia Nightingale, a woman with a vision and a whole lot of heart, Kenana Knitters began as a grassroots initiative to help rural women generate income using their traditional handcrafting skills. With limited job options in their community, Patricia saw potential in what others might overlook: the quiet power of a knitted toy and a community of women.
From this spark, Kenana Down Under was born- a partnership that brings these handcrafted toys to Australia and beyond. It’s not just a collection; it’s a connection. Between artisan and buyer. Between purpose and play. Between two corners of the globe stitched together by yarn and heart.
Today, the Kenana Down Under collective includes over 500 artisans- many of whom are the primary earners for their families. With every toy they knit, these women are earning fair wages, supporting their households, and gaining the kind of independence that creates generational change.
What Makes a Kenana Down Under Knitted Toy So Special?
Let’s be honest: the world doesn’t need more toys. It needs better ones- thoughtfully made, ethically sourced, and filled with purpose. That’s where Kenana Down Under comes in.
Every Kenana Down Under knitted toy is:
- Made from organic, homespun wool
- Dyed with natural or AZO-free dyes
- Handcrafted by women artisans in Kenya
- Signed by the maker-because every toy should come with a story
These aren't just soft, squishable animals. They’re keepsakes. Conversation starters. Tiny ambassadors of sustainability and fair trade. They’re also a perfect example of eco-friendly toys - toys that are gentle on the planet and the people who make them.
And lucky for you, you don’t have to travel to Kenya to get your hands on one.
Jade and May x Kenana Down Under: A Match Made in Handmade Heaven
At Jade and May, we’ve always had a soft spot for ethically made, joy-sparking pieces-and the Kenana Down Under collection? Total heart-eyes.
We’re proud stockists of the Kenana Down Under collection right here at Jade and May, bringing these gorgeous handcrafted animals straight to your doorstep- no passport required
Looking for a unique knitted toy gift that’s ethical and adorable? Here are some of our faves:
🦁 Kenana Down Under Lion – This little guy might be king of the jungle, but he’s got a heart of gold. Soft, snuggly, and perfect for gifting (or keeping—no judgment)
👉 Meet the lion
🐻 Latte Ditsy Teddy Bear – The coziest knitted teddy you’ve ever seen. Comes in small and large sizes, and every bear is hand-knitted from naturally dyed wool
👉 Snuggle one here
🐘 Kenana Down Under Minis – These mini knitted toys are small in size but big on charm. Use them as keyrings, ornaments, or tiny travel buddies with a cause
👉 Shop the minis
Each toy you purchase directly supports the woman who made it- helping fund education, healthcare, and safe, sustainable work
More Than Just a Knitted Toy
Sure, the toys are cute- but the mission is even better.
Kenana Down Under goes beyond adorable plush toys. The organization also runs literacy classes, health workshops, and nutrition programs for the community. Every knitted toy from Kenya that finds a new home is a stitch in a much bigger tapestry of positive change
And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want to give a gift that’s cute and does good? You’re not just giving a gift- you’re investing in eco-friendly toys with heart. It’s joy with impact, in the palm of your hand.
The Bottom Line?
Not all toys are created equal. When you choose a handmade knitted toy from Jade and May, you’re giving more than just a soft friend- you’re giving dignity, independence, and opportunity to the women behind the wool
✨ Ready to gift with heart? Explore the Kenana Down Under range
