Apricot Tree learners’ market a success

The market gives learners the opportunity to brush-up on the entrepreneurial skills.

November 9, 2025

Jani de Beer 1 minute read

Woman in black stands with a young man holding a book with a white cover and a wheelchair-bound man holding a crochet chicken. — Seen here are Happiness Mpofu with Tristen (right) and Dornal. Photo: Jani de Beer

Ninth Avenue was a hive of activity as the young adult learners of the Apricot Tree manned their stations for the centre’s annual market week, from October 27 to 31.

The popcorn popped, the coffee machine blew off some steam, and the aroma of fresh braai meat filled the air as the learners at the Northmead-based stimulation centre showcased their vocational skills, selling arts, crafts and treats.

A black girl sitting with a black woman wearing a yellow bandana — Mitchell Farai and Jabu Masuku show off their hand-crafted items. Photo: Jani de Beer

Set in the newly completed respite centre, which will soon double as a skills development centre for the children in its care, the ‘Apricots’, assisted by parents and facilitators, interacted with shoppers to essentially seal the deal in selling their stock.

“It is vital that our learners gain practical experience, such as working with money, engaging socially with the public and gaining confidence in their abilities,” said principal Abby-Jade Reason.

Woman with black shirt and a man braai tongs stand with a huge plus toy. — Apricot Tree’s principal Abby-Jade Reason, and braai master Nathan, cuddle up to the centre’s mascot, Max. Photo: Jani de Beer

“The market also allows us to raise awareness about our facility while contributing to our ongoing fundraising efforts.”

She explained that the respite centre will be used to expand on the children’s capabilities, thus creating opportunities for them to create hand-crafted items such as beaded jewellery, aroma therapeutic bath salts, games and other items.

Tasked as the braai master, Nathan said he is sure the smell of perfectly braai’d wors is what brought all the shoppers to the centre.

Woman with red jacket and boy with red shirt pose next to a popcorn machine. — Ruth Mpochela and Rorrisang made sure their freshly popped popcorn was perfectly seasoned. Photo: Jani de Beer

“The woody smell of a braai is possibly the best smell,” he said.

Mitchell Farai’s beaded jewellery and handcrafted items were a hit.

Black woman sitting next to a man with glasses. In front of them are six wooden dice. — Chido Musapingura and Aramis with the giant garden game they created. Photo: Jani de Beer

“This week has been a lot of fun,” said Aramis. “Everyone came to support the market, and they bought a lot of stuff. Thankfully, it was pay day.”

Reason thanked everyone who supported the week, saying the learners benefited greatly from the experience and interactions with the members of their community.