Creative arts no longer just hobby

Duduza – Sibongile Hlahane (43) has found a way to build a business from her hobby.

“My interest in crafts began when my mother was part of a program, in 2012, and they were taught how to do bead work,” explains the mother of three.

She says that soon she was playing around with the beads.

“I didn’t really think I was making something – it was just to pass time.

I found it to be quite relaxing.”

She adds that she enjoys learning about different kinds of beads.

Sibongile believes this is a God-given talent.

“I mastered it in such a short space of time.

“People even think that I have been doing this since I was a child.”

After she observed the overwhelming response to her work, she decided to go into business.

“I see the demand for my work.

“I get stopped in the streets because people want my bead work.”

Sibongile’s Crafts has a loyal following of people who appreciate culture being expressed in art.

“I am a perfectionist, so I take my time on each piece and I will not sell anything until I am convinced that I would wear it myself.”

She sets up her display table at every event held at Duduza Library.

“I do not have a shop or office yet, but it is all coming soon.”

Sibongile can be contacted by email at shlahane@yahoo.com.