Inspired by true events and knowledge, the Ma(i)de initiative has come to life
FOURWAYS – What you wear can change how people perceive you, the new Ma(i)de initiative and clothing line offers just that to the image of domestic workers.
The Ma(i)de initiative was founded for two very specific reasons – to change the mindset of communities and to improve the self-worth of domestic workers, through the gift of fashion.
Mbali Njomane and Tuliza Sindi were proud to introduce this initiative and their new clothing range for domestic workers to the public recently, and shared some of their views as to why they think this is something that needs to be done in South Africa. They assembled an esteemed panel and hosted a discussion evening at the University of Johannesburg Art, Design and Architectural auditorium on 5 April.
Njomane asked some interesting questions and the panel gave some ground-shaking answers.
Timothy Maurice, a social and brand analyst from the United States, explained that if people wear clothes that symbolise and brand them, the branding can either give a sense of accomplishment or a lack of worth. Feeling a lack of worth can cause stress, which can break mental capacity. “If you dress differently, people will treat you differently – the uniform can kill the essence of a person,” said Maurice.
Julie Mthembu, who is a domestic worker herself, said that she would not go to her child’s school’s parent-teacher evening dressed in her domestic uniform because her child would feel ashamed. “I want to protect my child from the judgment of other children,” said Mthembu.
“When they put on that piece of fabric their value disappears, we want to change that,” said Sindi.
Nikki Gajoo, one of the co-founders of Ma(i)de, explained that their purpose is to re-imagine and re-position the unique value of domestic workers in South Africa, whilst expanding their scope of opportunity. “We need to start seeing domestic workers as helpers and not as domestic workers,” said Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Humanitarian.
“If our homes don’t function, then South Africa won’t function,” added Njomane.
In what ways do you value your domestic worker to make her feel appreciated for all she does for you? Share your views on the Fourways Review Facebook Page.
