Small businesses enjoy success at the summit

SMALL, medium and micro enterprises expressed excitement at the boost for their business from international delegates from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa who flocked to the East London ICC for the longawaited Brics meeting.

Ozzys Eco Decor, an interior decorating company which contributes to environmental preservation by recycling goods and turning them into furniture, director Yolanda Msutwana, said the event was a great platform to expose her merchandise to international markets.

“It has been wonderful engaging with people who have been asking me about my products, what they’re made of. Lots of interest has been shown, particularly in my chairs and clocks, which are made out of old tyres, as well as my lampshades, which are decorated with traditional beads.”

Msutwana was among about 30 exhibitors occupying the ground floor of the ICC venue, which is the base for the Brics Friendship Cities, Local Government Cooperation and Urbanisation Forum, which started yesterday and ends on Sunday.

Products on display ranged from traditional earrings sold by crafters, aluminium doors and windows from a Mdantsane-based company, Aristopix, and even financial planning from Metropolitan.

Nobuzwe Mabona of Afro Wear said her clothes and items had been well received by the visitors, who have made several orders for customised designs and colours.

“People were intrigued with the designs and have taken my contact details. We’re hoping they follow through on their orders, but regardless, being here has opened doors for us, one way or another.”

Thokozile Qabaka of Noncedo’s Creations, who sells mosaic sculptures in the form of elephants, rhinos and the South African flag, said she was honoured to have been among the crafters selected to represent her country.

“We are here to represent our country and they have chosen me. It’s an honour. My products speak for themselves, and they have been received warmly from everyone who’s visited my stall. Although there have been no sales yet, it is only the first day of the meetings.”

Visions Becoming, a clothing brand that sells traditional attire for adults and children, said their children’s clothing was a hit, and they have received many orders.

“People like our style, the colours and the combination of different textures,” she said.

All of the crafters were appointed through the Eastern Cape Arts Hub, a parastatal of the department of arts and culture. —