Arts and crafts making has remained a popular activity over the years as a means of making an income. In South Africa, especially in the African cultures, crafts-making still remains an essential part of rural living through its contribution to alleviating poverty by trading finished products as a means of generating an income. This is especially true for women in rural areas who face a diverse number of challenges daily. Given the challenges associated with rural living such as poverty, cultural oppression and low literacy levels, it is not surprising that women in rural areas resort to craft-making as a means of livelihood. For some women in economically disadvantaged communities, craft-making extends beyond the traditional state of being an activity of self-expression, identity-creation or an emotional experience. Craft-making also becomes economically beneficial to participants. Many craft-makers produce craft products for exhibition and sale, some form collaborations with other creative businesses to develop bespoke new work.

Overview

We are a community-based organisation that champions women’s cultural interests, rights, health, socio-economic and political upliftment, and basic freedoms and privileges applying to the fundamental humanity and dignity of a person.Our traditional arts and crafts include beadwork, weaving, woodwork, sewing, pottery, beaded bags and traditional clothing vary according to culture and tradition in the various provinces where the programme is implemented. The arts and crafts are usually handmade and laced with the living experiences and stories of the women who makes it, which socially conscious consumers can easily relate to. Their production requires very minimal initial capital and workspace.

Strategic Objectives

• To provide employment opportunities to unemployed individuals, in particular women in rural areas, by using their existing skills and creating opportunities for them to acquire new traditional cultural skills.
• Promote entrepreneurship among women;
• Promotion and creation of value for indigenous crafts, especially those driven by women

Expected Outcomes

• Women are increasingly taking up the leadership role in economic activity.
• Established networks of support

Indigenous crafts have the capacity to ‘increase local incomes, preserve ancient techniques  and  cultural  heritage  and  provide  widespread employment.