Handcrafted Traditional African Jewellery Ndlovu Zulu Bangle by Woza Moya Crafters

Woza Moya is a social enterprise established in 2002, whose primary objective is the reduction of poverty through craft. Woza Moya's crafters' work has now become a collectable item, with major galleries buying their creations. The sole focus of Woza Moya has been to assist men and women who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and are in desperate need of earning an income.

Since its inception in 1991, the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust, a holistic HIV/AIDS project, has attempted to uplift the lives of those both infected and affected by the pandemic through practical care. As new challenges and opportunities have presented themselves, one of the projects established is Woza Moya, which assists those in desperate need to acquire a craft skill and earn an income through the sale of their crafts. This puts income back into vulnerable communities at the heart of the pandemic.

Woza Moya has trained over 350 crafters since its establishment in 2002, the majority of whom are first-time income earners with 5-10 dependents. Over 95% of the project's beneficiaries are currently women, many of whom are the breadwinners in their families.

South Africans believe in Ubuntu - "I am because you are" or "humanity towards others". This philosophy is at the core of Woza Moya's efforts to empower local communities impacted by HIV/AIDS.

Woza Moya, meaning "come winds of change," is the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust's award-winning economic empowerment project. It uplifts, empowers, and inspires local people affected by HIV/AIDS by providing training and support to local artists and crafters. The project currently enables 350 local crafters to earn a sustainable income through the sale of their proudly South African, hand-made products, with market access provided to a further 1,500 crafters every month.

Woza Moya's unique products have gained recognition, with the crafters' work becoming a collectible item sought after by major galleries. The high-quality, hand-made traditional African jewelry, created with the finest glass beads, showcases the unique "Woza style" of South African artisans. These authentic, handmade products are imported directly from South Africa, supporting the local artisans and communities.

In summary, Woza Moya's mission is to empower those affected by HIV/AIDS through the power of craft, providing sustainable income opportunities and uplifting vulnerable communities in South Africa. The project's success is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the local artisans, as well as the commitment of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust to making a positive impact on the lives of those impacted by the pandemic.

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