Karen Walker announced the second year of its collaboration with Fiji’s non-profit organisation, Rise Beyond the Reef.
Established in 2014, Rise Beyond the Reef has supported rural Indigenous women and their families in Fiji by creating sustainable work pathways. The partnership has brought together Karen Walker’s chic meets-utility style and women’s traditional craftsmanship from remote Fijian communities.
This collaboration has empowered Pasifika women, expanding their presence in local and global markets and preserving rich cultural traditions. These handmade goods reflected ecological, cultural, and social values while promoting climate-smart agricultural initiatives.
“This collaboration is a unique opportunity to celebrate the craftsmanship of Fijian artisans while bringing their work to a global market,” said Karen Walker.
“Fiji holds a deep connection for me and my family, and I’m proud to continue working with Rise Beyond the Reef to create something that reflects the beauty and resilience of its people.”
This year’s collaboration features four handwoven bags. Each bag has been accented with signature Karen Walker Runaway straps, adding a contemporary touch that effortlessly moves from the shores of Fiji to urban life.
Handwoven in Ra Province on the northern part of Viti Levu, the Pandanus Tote and Backpack design reflected the local community’s commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.
At the same time, the Basket Tote was crafted with 100 percent natural fibres on Kioa Island. Sasa (coconut palm spine) is harvested, split into small sticks, bundled, and wrapped with voivoi leaf before being woven into the final form.
The handwoven pieces are then sent to Sabeto Valley, where the Rise Beyond the Reef Studio Collection team manages the leather finishing and final assembly before the completed bags are shipped to New Zealand.
“Working with Karen Walker has been a powerful collaboration. Together, we’re bringing beautiful products to market and driving real change in rural communities, empowering women, and preserving traditional skills,” said Janet Lotawa, co-founder and director of Rise Beyond the Reef.
This spirit of collaboration has been woven into the very essence of the new collection.
