Read more about how
Izinto Zimveli has helped improve the lives of rural women and youth.

Izinto Zimveli
P O Box 15194, Beacon Bay, East London, South Africa, 5205
Tel/Fax: +27 43  748 2758
Cell: 082 953 8743
E-mail: tokoloshe@iafrica.com

Izinto Zimveli (a Xhosa phrase which means "things from our culture/origins") was started by Independent Training & Development Consultants (ITDC) - a South African based training brokerage, specialising in technical training on development projects.

ITDC recognized that South African rural communities have very little in the way of employment opportunities and skills. They do, however, possess a fascinating traditional craft that has been handed down from generation to generation.

Unfortunately this age-old craft is fast becoming lost and forgotten. In a study conducted in August 2000 at an informal settlement outside East London, it was found that only 5 women out of a total of 195 were proficient in the traditional craft of beadwork. It was shocking to note that all 5 women were over the age of 50 and not one youngster could be found who was skilled in beadwork.

These factors prompted ITDC to design a beadwork training course which was offered to a group of ladies from the Ducats Informal Settlement, just outside of East London. Many training workshops have since been held, and today Izinto Zimveli provides valuable income generation and employment opportunities to 15 women and 3 young men from the impoverished areas of Ducats Informal Settlement (Squatter Camp), Duncan Village Informal Settlement, Kwelera and Mdantsane.

Member of the Bead Society of South Africa

Gladys Thembani
Izinto Zimveli Member

Izinto Zimveli
c/o ITDC
P O Box 15194, Beacon Bay, East London, South Africa, 5205
Tel/Fax: (043) 726 3580
Cell: 083 633 0342
E-mail: tokoloshe@iafrica.com