Entrepreneur of the Week
Monique Fourie
Miqsy Creations Handcrafted Earrings
Designing and crafting exquisitely unique polymer clay earrings, Mbombela artist Monique Fourie opened her business, Miqsy Creations Handcrafted Earrings, in February 2021.
It all began when a friend of Fourie’s suggested that she start making earrings. After a lot of research, she decided to take the chance.
“I have always been creative and as an artist, I wanted to create something that wouldn’t pile up in a cupboard, like drawings and other artwork,” said Fourie. Born and raised in Tzaneen, Fourie moved to Mbombela in June 2019. Fourie works on her creations part-time from her home in Mbombela and has an online sales platform.
“I recently started expanding into keychains, hair clips and custom work. Furthermore, we now also do 3D printing in which we are mainly focusing on clay cutters, but we are open to custom orders.”
Fourie uses polymer clay, which is flexible, non-toxic and waterproof, and stainless steel findings to make the most beautifully designed earrings.
She says she uses her profits from the business to buy new stock and materials to try and expand her products.
“It is a part-time job and a hobby, so the profit is what keeps the business going,” she said.
When asked why community support is important to Fourie and her business, she said she loves the smiles she puts on clients faces with her work.
“I truly believe in supporting local and small businesses, especially if you are looking for something unique that is not mass-produced.”