THE CRAFTERS' HISTORY:
The Khayelitsha Craft Market was started in 1997 in a hall used by the Anglican Church in Harare. The minister at the time had noticed that many of the people had skills and talents, but did not have an outlet for these. Today the church is situated opposite the market, which has expanded to having more than 20 crafters, and is open 6 days a week, and by arrangement, on Sundays and public holidays.
The Philani Centre was initially set up in the late 1980's as a nutrition centre for malnourished children. Mothers were then taught skills such as weaving and print-making in order to provide an income to feed their children properly. Today it has expanded and boasts a pre-primary school on the property as well.
Golden, who makes the flowers, was unemployed and had a family to support. He was removed from school in Grade 2 by his parents to help look after his younger brothers and sisters. It was difficult for him to find employment due to his lack of education. He is now doing what he enjoys and helping to support his family, due to a dream about making flowers from old tins, which he proudly tells people, was put into his head by God.
Beauty taught herself to sew after working as a sweeper and an ironer, in a clothing factory. Today she is able to design and make any items, and teaches not only other women, but children as well, without receiving a cent from them. She believes that when one has a skill, one should share it.
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