GEORGE NEWS - For a long time the Thembalethu Tourism Bureau has had the reputation among residents of being a white elephant. It seems like this could become a thing of the past as the George Municipality is doing everything in its power to make it accessible and useful to the public.
The George Municipal Local Economic Development Department (LED) and the George Tourism Department have initiated a programme called 'George initiative of Hope' which invites local artists and crafters to showcase their handicraft (arts and crafts) at the Thembalethu Tourism Office.
"The George initiative of Hope aims to assist local crafters who are in need of space, training, marketing, advertising and exposure to their target markets. There's so much talent in Thembalethu. We must not shy away from exposing their talents as this may open many doors for them," she said. Lewis said a lot has changed at the Thembalethu Tourism Centre and it is now more accessible to the public.
"We are planning to have a number of initiatives to grow the centre and make it more attractive to the public. However, the most important thing is that people visit the centre and ask us to assist them. This is a public facility and everyone is welcome here. We are here to assist the public in any way possible."
Members of the public such as unemployed people, students, youth and entrepreneurs can make use of internet access and computers at the Thembalethu Tourism Centre. The tourism office will also assist small businesses to apply for funding and get their business registered.
- Work space for artist and crafters
- Space and equipment will be provided at the Tourism Centre for people interested in sewing.
- Marketing opportunities
- Products will be showcased and marketed to local and international tourists visiting the centre.
- Selling of products
Training
Training will be available to handcrafters and artists on a regular basis to ensure quality products and sustainable income for them.
The date to bring in your craft to the Thembalethu Tourism Centre has been extended to 31 March. All local artists and handcrafters are invited to bring their crafts before this date. For more information please contact the Thembalethu Tourism Bureau from 14:00 to 17:00 at 044 801 9195.
ARTICLE: ZOLANI SINXO, INDINGA EDITOR
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