They say, ‘give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for life’.
Zikulise Community Upliftment Project in Empangeni puts into practise this adage and has changed the lives of many Zululanders by providing the necessary skills and training to better themselves at no cost.
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The NPO goes above and beyond in sourcing funds and materials to upskill community members who come from poor households.
One such beneficiary is Sandile Ndlovu from Ndlangubo in uMmlalazi.
Sandile has been unemployed for the past four years after being laid off from working for a security company.
‘I couldn’t sit at home any longer, hoping something would come along. I had to do something. I have four children and I needed to supplement my husband’s income to help provide for my family,’ she said. In 2019, Sandile joined Zikulise and enrolled in a 33-day training course in hand and machine sewing, traditional bead weaving, embroidery, and business management funded by the National Arts council. After completing the course, she established her own business.
Her husband surprised her with a sewing machine which she uses to make embroidered garments for Amanazaretha.
‘I make clothing for children and adults, in fact whatever my customers require, I sew,’ said Sandile.
‘Zikulise helped me so much as I am now a proud businesswoman! I know how to manage my business and keep my customers happy.
‘I advertise via social media and through word of mouth. My community knows me and that I produce quality products.
‘I can now also pay for electricity and provide for my children’s needs.’ Zikulise NPO
Courses are offered in baking, sewing (hand or machine), beading, weaving, ceramics, or hair braiding (training in business management included).
Anyone living in the King Cetshwayo District, who is unemployed and would like to start such a business can call or WhatsApp 079 4287761 (Monday-Friday between 8.30am and 3.45pm), call 060 7726114 (Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 8.15am and 12.45pm) or email training@zikulise.org.za. Alternatively, visit Zikulise at the SMME One-Stop Shop at the corner of Turnbull and Nkwanazi (Main Road) roads in Empangeni (Monday-Friday, 8.30am to 3.45pm) or at the Eagle Room (ZCBF park) in Richards Bay (Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 8.15am and 12.45pm).
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