Local crafters showcase their work at the Hexagon
The district department of economic development and environmental affairs (Dedeat) opened the Chris Hani Hexagon to host a craft fair for local artisans, including bead workers and clothing designers.
The event allowed crafters to showcase their work and gain exposure to new customers.
The marketing and sales initiative, which ran from Wednesday until Friday, was part of the built-up events leading up to the provincial Heritage Day celebration held on Sunday at the Methodist church in Lesseyton.
Dedeat economic development portfolio manager Nokubonga Mayeki said 24 crafters and designers from the six local municipalities of the district were invited to display their work.
“We selected 24 artisans who received support from the department, four from each municipality.
“Some create beaded jewellery, others make crafts from recycled materials, and others are fashion designers specialising in traditional garments,” Mayeki said.
The youth, older women, and people living with disabilities were included in the initiative, Mayeki said.
“The response from the community has been positive.
“People visited the market to buy unique products.
“Some of the vendors received orders,” Mayeki said, indicating that the chief whip would order from the crafters to create a Heritage Day outfit.
While the first day of the marketing expedition did not result in high sales, she said she was confident that it would grow over time as people became familiar with the location.
She said the initiative would become an annual event in serving to revive small and medium micro-entrepreneurs (SMMEs).
Mayeki said these crafters and designers create the items from their homes.
“If they want to continue doing so on weekends, we will make the space open for them and support them until they become independent,” Mayeki said.
In addition to clothing designers and beaders, the event featured musicians and poets who performed and shared their experiences through art.
“We also invited artists from Ezibeleni and Mlungisi to participate in the flea market.
“They shared their experiences with drug abuse and how art and music helped them recover.
“Additionally, youth with disabilities showcased their talents.”
Dedeat organised the market with the support of several local entities, including the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, and Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality community services, which supplied cleaners to keep the venue tidy.
The SAPS provided security. The NYDA also attended the event to provide information about their services for young entrepreneurs.