EMBOCRAFT Training Centre Trust continues to be a beacon of hope for many young unemployed people with the various skills training courses offered.
The centre offers skills from sewing, welding, arts to computer skills with assistance from donors. Students pay a R250 registration fee.
Embocraft was started by Brenda Locke in 1986 after she was exposed to the poverty and unemployment in the community surrounding her in the Valley of 1000 Hills. She decided to take action and do something about it.
ALSO READ: Find that special handcrafted Christmas gift and support Embocraft Training Centre
She started teaching a few women how to sew at her house before moving to the premises next to Kearsney College
Angel Khwela from KwaNdengezi and Precious Tenza from Inchanga are just two women who are part of the numerous success stories.
Khwela and Tenza are now equipped with skills to help them earn an income or contribute towards job creation or employment.
Khwela said when she was first introduced to Embocraft, she initially planned to pursue a sewing course, but after realising she had an interest in boilermaking, she opted for the welding course.
Tenza, a 28-year-old wife and mother, said she noticed the centre each time she passed the building with her husband.
“One day I entered to enquire, they were very friendly and explained the services they offered.
“I chose welding because I love challenges,” she said.
As a mother, Tenza said it feels good to be able to wake up each morning and do something positive.
“It is so uplifting and has boosted my confidence,” she said.
Khwela added that women should not be discouraged to take up jobs considered to be part of ‘male-dominated’ fields. “Anyone can be a welder if they apply themselves,” she said.
Precious Tenza and Angel Khwela with the garden ornaments they made.
ALSO READ: Find that special handcrafted Christmas gift and support Embocraft Training Centre
Embocraft’s, Carolyn Webster said the centre has a constant stream of requests from communities in need of skills training and that requires a continuous source of funding from donors.
Webster said the welding course takes a month but Tenza and Khwela are now on a one-year learnership sponsored by Nedbank.
“Recently, we received generous donations and equipment which we are grateful for from Tyren Jugmohan from EIS who also referred us to a company called PFERD. During the day of the handover, our students were also treated to pizza. It was such a beautiful day,” she said.
The centre also generates money through it shop which sells unique craft items.
“Unemployed community members and graduates are able to earn an income as when there are huge orders, we call them in to assist,” she said.
She invites the public and companies to support Embocraft and the graduates by purchasing their items.
To find out more about the centre or to buy unique craft items, residents can visit the centre at 27 Old Main Road, Botha’s Hill and request a tour. Alternatively, people can contact the centre on 031 765 3697.
The shop is open from Monday to Thursday 8am to 4pm and on Friday from 8am to 3.30pm. Entrance to the parking area is off Kearsney Road.
The shop also open on Saturday from 8am to 2pm.
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