The end result was that the 30 female participants, 'Mamas', and their teachers conjured up beautiful crafts. This was part of the social corporate investment project entitled 'Clover Mama Afrika Smarties Week'. This is an ongoing project aimed at empowering the participants with viable skills, which they can then pass onto others so that they can earn a sustainable income for themselves, their families and their communities.
The skills transfer initiative is the brainchild of Prof Elain Vlok, Clover manager of Corporate Services.
All of the participants were carefully selected for their determination and perseverance. The "Mamas" look after the vulnerable (neglected elderly, abused children and HIV/Aids victims) in KwaZulu-Natal villages. For the past six years the 'Mamas' have been given a chance to put their cares aside to take part in the Smarties Week. In that period the same group of women get training sessions.
Prof Vlok confessed that she enjoyed joining and giving lessons in mosaic, quilting and painting designs on plates. The women also learnt to do flower arranging and were given lectures on bookkeeping and costing. They were also given hairdressing lessons. Their day started early with a baking lesson followed by learning how to make chunky jewellery.
On the last day a prizegiving dinner was held to celebrate all their newfound skills.
Smarties in action... Ilze Fourie in the centre with her students proudly showing off their necklaces made with love and pride under her guidance. Front, left: Prof Elain Vlok also assisted with the jewellery making workshop at the recent 'Clover Mama Afrika Smarties Week'.
'We bring you the latest George | Garden Route news'
