New jewellery design graduates honoured

STUDENTS from the Seda Limpopo Jewellery Incubator (SLJI) recently graduated from the programme.

Acting SLJI CEO, Tessa Ngobeni, said 28 students were awarded certificates during the graduation ceremony that took place at the Polokwane International Airport.

“Students received certificates for completing the learnership programmes, which were founded by the Mining Qualification Authority (MQA) and Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) programme founded by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda).

“The SLJI produces quality students who are going to add value to the economy. This is the first graduation since the establishment of SLJI in 2009. We hope that their qualification will also benefit the country. I know that they are ready to use the skills they have acquired for the growth and development of society. I appreciate that the incubators had put a lot of work into their studies,” said Ngobeni.

She said the Seda Limpopo Jewellery Incubator is the only programme in Limpopo that offered training and small business development assistance in the jewellery design and manufacturing sector.

“We also promote mineral use through jewellery manufacturing. We all saw how much effort the students put in learning jewellery design and manufacturing,” she said.

Ngobeni advised the graduates to add value and not numbers to the companies that offered them employment.

“Always believe in yourself, in your talent and skills. Be productive, stop making excuses for not getting your work done. Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world. Follow your dreams and believe in yourself. This is a new beginning for you and there lies a dream ahead,” she said.

Peter Moredi, Seda Capricorn regional manager, said it was a great day for the SLJI board of directors, graduates and students.

“It’s a day that confirms the impact, efficiency and effectiveness of the incubation programme. We are very happy and excited to see our efforts and one of our strategic objectives bear fruit.

“These graduates need to take learning to a new level by applying what they have learned in the work environment either by establishing their own small businesses or to secure employment.

“They need to focus on good practise and good quality products. The jewellery industry’s success and strength is entrenched in innovation. New designs that are unique will win you a competitive advantage.

“Build a strong brand, keep in touch with market trends, monitor and control your overheads, be disciplined and monitor your cash flow,” he advised.

“Should you decide to establish your own business, Seda is more than ready to give you support and advice with all aspects within its mandate.

“When you are on journey and you encounter challenges, change the route not the destination.

“We are a centre of excellence, we will always strive to give students world class training, empower students with skills and knowledge that will open doors and opportunities for them in the jewellery industry.”