For centuries, jewellery has carried meaning far beyond adornment. It has been a form of self-expression, a marker of status, a cultural symbol, and an art form that connects generations. Thanks to support from the NAC’s PESP 5 funding, one beneficiary project has successfully celebrated this legacy while passing on knowledge of jewellery, pottery, beadwork and fashion to communities eager to learn, create and preserve these traditions.
Empowering Through Skills Development
The project placed strong emphasis on skills transfer and empowerment, enabling participants who previously had little exposure to crafts to gain practical knowledge and confidence. Training covered a range of disciplines, from the delicate art of beadwork to the shaping of pottery and the refinement of jewellery pieces. Each skill was taught not only as a creative outlet but also as a means of creating livelihoods.
Jewellery was a particular focus, explored both as a precious cultural asset and as a craft that continues to play a vital role in African traditions and identities. Participants were also taught how to care for jewellery through cleaning and storage techniques, ensuring that these items can be preserved for years to come. This combination of artistic and practical learning gave participants a deeper appreciation of jewellery as both adornment and heritage.
Celebrating Talent Through Exhibition
The project’s achievements extended beyond training with a public exhibition held on 28 December 2024. This event showcased the works of participants to wider audiences and became a powerful space of cultural exchange. The exhibition demonstrated how jewellery, beads, pottery and fashion remain deeply woven into African life. These crafted items represented more than beauty. They symbolised personal milestones, emotions and shared heritage. For participants, the event created opportunities to meet new clients, build networks and gain visibility for their work.
Building on Success
Looking ahead, the project team has expressed excitement about developing further initiatives, with a particular focus on involving more SMMEs in craft production and jewellery design. The long-term vision is to raise awareness of these creative sectors and encourage young people to pursue formal qualifications in jewellery-making and craft production. This approach will help to professionalise the sector and ensure that its skills are recognised at a national level.
Participants described the programme as “Skills Innovation – The Change We Need.” For many, it was a life-changing experience that created new opportunities, introduced them to new clients and strengthened their connection to cultural heritage. Most importantly, it opened doors to a future where craft is not only an expression of identity but also a viable path to economic empowerment.
Through PESP funding, the NAC continues to support projects that celebrate cultural heritage, build creative skills and create sustainable livelihoods. This project stands as a shining example of how investment in the arts can preserve traditions while also empowering communities and shaping future generations.
