Fair-trade store KANZI opening Nov. 10

Homewood will soon be given a little piece of Africa when one of the newest stores in the community, KANZI, opens for business on Nov. 10. 

KANZI, which means “hidden treasures” in Swahili, began after founders Scott and Jamie Laslo realized that their East Africa non-profit, Pearl Ministries, needed a change. “I noticed we needed more ways to do more sustainable development that just pure charity,” said Scott Laslo. With KANZI, employees are able to create their own goods to sell through the store, which in turn leads them to develop greater business skills. This is all done through the fair-trade regulations. 

As a fair trade store, the retailer promises to either source directly from artisans by using fair trade agreements, or receives its products from other wholesalers who use fair trade retailers. 

“Basically, the people who make the goods are all treated fairly,” said Laslo. 

The store initially began in 2010 online and at a kiosk at the Riverchase Galleria. It was placed on the back burner for a few years, Laslo said, but eventually he and his wife decided it was time to spend more time on the businesses. “We’re super excited to bring it back,” he said. 

Located on 2817 Central Ave. behind Little Donkey, KANZI features handmade artisanal goods of East Africa, such as jewelry, stationary products and clothing. “We’re going to have a pretty good offering [of products],” Laslo said. “We’re really excited to open this year.”

Hours will be Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and during the grand opening day, shoppers will be treated to a discount of 20 percent applied through the entire store.