Africa has come under the world's spotlight with American celebrities such as Brangelina, Bono and Oprah attracting extensive coverage for African causes. It stands to reason, then, that American fashionistas would begin to notice Africa for its exotic accessories. Among the lines attracting attention are Zulugrass jewelry and Tsonga shoes.

Zulugrass began with the dream of Philip and Katy Leakey (he's a son of renowned paleontologists Louis and Mary Leakey), who saw a need to create employment opportunities for the Maasai women of south Kenya. Their idea: have Maasai women, who are talented beaders, fashion jewelry from beads made of dyed grass, an abundant sustainable resource.

Colorful, fun Zulugrass jewelry can be twisted and clasped to create chokers, lariats, bracelets, anklets and belts.

Tsonga shoes are made by women who live in the Kingdom of the Zulu in South Africa. The comfortable, hand-crafted leather sandals have padded soles and come in a plethora of colors, from turquoise and red to earth tones.

Proceeds from the sales of Zulugrass and Tsonga products go to the communities of women who make them. To learn more, meet Gary Debiasi at Sandal Tree in Ala Moana Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow. There will be drawings for free shoes and jewelry as well as demonstrations on how to twist Zulugrass jewelry into accessories.

PHOTOS TO FABRIC

Here's a free workshop for those who would like to transform family photos into keepsake quilts. Carlene Ho of Ben Franklin Crafts hosts a one-hour workshop, sponsored by the Friends of the Library of Hawai'i, during which transfer techniques will be explored.

The workshop is at 3 p.m. Jan. 20 in the Art, Music and Recreation Section of the main library at 478 S. King St., second floor. Information: 586-3520. Registration is not required, but call the library two weeks in advance if a sign language interpreter or other special accommodation is needed.

Reach Paula Rath at paularath@aol.com.