I am an emerging artist from Glenwood in Durban, primarily focusing on photography. I hold an undergraduate degree and an honors degree in photography, which I obtained from the Durban University of Technology. Although I have some work experience, my first internship where I could physically attend the workplace was at Woza Moya.

Woza Moya is the economic empowerment project of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) in South Africa. It primarily supports local artists and crafters, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty, by providing them with a sustainable source of income through arts, crafts, and handmade products.

Allow me to share my experience spending Valentine’s Day at Woza Moya in Hillcrest, a warm and welcoming workplace. Valentine’s Day, as we all know, is a day to celebrate love and show appreciation for one another, and Woza Moya exceeded my expectations in demonstrating this spirit.

We exchanged gifts, dressed in red and white, and even held a modeling show. It was so exciting to see everyone laughing and cheering for each other as we walked up and down the stage. Woza Moya truly is a place of healing, empowerment, and economic transformation.

One might expect to find people acting superior based on their positions at work, but at Woza Moya, everyone is humble and treats one another like family. Although we celebrated Valentine’s Day with fun and gift exchanges, we were simply continuing the tradition of loving and appreciating each other’s presence every day.

Woza Moya empowers local crafters by providing skills training in traditional and contemporary art forms such as beadwork, embroidery, textile arts, and wire sculpture, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage while equipping artisans with modern, marketable skills. By offering a fair and ethical trade platform, the initiative enables crafters to earn a sustainable income through the sale of their work in galleries, gift shops, and online, helping them support their families financially.

Woza Moya also fosters creativity and innovation, encouraging artisans to experiment with new designs, materials, and techniques to keep their work relevant in both local and international markets. Additionally, the organization expands market access by partnering with local and global buyers, showcasing artisans’ work in exhibitions, and utilizing e-commerce platforms to connect them with a wider audience. Beyond economic opportunities, Woza Moya provides essential emotional and social support, particularly for those from vulnerable backgrounds, fostering a strong sense of community, dignity, and empowerment.

Over the past two decades, Woza Moya has transformed the lives of countless crafters by turning their artistic talents into sustainable livelihoods. The project is a testament to the power of art as a tool for economic development and social change. By preserving traditional craft while embracing contemporary innovation, Woza Moya continues to uplift and inspire South African artisans—one handcrafted piece at a time.

To conclude I would like to say that Woza Moya is more than just a craft initiative—it is a powerful force for social change, empowerment, and artistic innovation. By providing skills development, sustainable income opportunities, and emotional support, the organization uplifts crafters and their communities, preserving cultural heritage while fostering creativity and economic independence.

Through its ethical trade practices and commitment to market access, Woza Moya ensures that artisans are not only recognized for their talents but also given the platform to thrive. Its impact extends beyond craft—it restores dignity, builds confidence, and transforms lives. Woza Moya stands as a shining example of how art, culture, and community can come together to create lasting change.