ON 11 September LIV proudly opened their first factory and created jobs for 130 unemployed and unskilled members of the local Cottonlands community. D
The workers had completed a two week life-changing Popup Personal Development and Upliftment training program, in preparation for further skills training and employment opportunities. Machinery has been purchased, electricity connected, and the preparation/training has begun to develop a team that will become highly skilled in the clothing manufacturing industry.
“It is time to bring manufacturing back into our province and we believe that building factories like these, close to communities where they can walk to work, is the answer. We will then be able to compete with the other countries and at the same time the worker will still take home the same net amount, as we do away with high travel costs.” Joan Smith, co-founder of LIV.
Compass Group PLC have committed to giving LIV the work they need to keep the factory operating at full potential.
Others with various skills and experience in weaving, shoe-making, woodwork, beading, jewellery design, ceramics and screen printing have committed to the training and development of a Home Industry program. This will be managed from the new factory and training centre premises where LIV will hone many talents in these areas.
Jonsson Workwear, through their Jonsson Enterprise Development Trust are also partnering with LIV in job creation and will set up and manage a second factory. Once funding is secured for the building of this factory, this will create job opportunities for a further 200 community members.
For more information about LIV, visit www.liv-village.com