The passionate artisan continues to inspire her community, with her lifelong love for beading bringing generations of women together through the work of Woza Moya.
Hillcrest, South Africa (09 July 2026) – Woza Moya is a social enterprise that was established in 2002 whose primary objective is the reduction of poverty through craft. As new challenges and opportunities have presented themselves, the Centre has adapted its approach to addressing both the disease and the effects of it on the community.
One of the projects is Woza Moya which assists those in desperate need to acquire a craft skill and earn an income through the sale of their craft. This puts income back into vulnerable communities at the heart of the pandemic.
The Woza Moya team visited Gogo MaGwala after hearing about her through her daughter, Happiness, one of the organisation’s talented beadworkers. What they found was far more than a gifted artisan. They discovered a home filled with laughter, family and a lifelong passion that continues to bring people together.
Her story was recently shared by Woza Moya & Friends on social media. Beading remains a daily ritual for Gogo MaGwala, but she’s rarely doing it alone. Her home has become a gathering place where women from the community regularly meet to bead, swap stories and keep a treasured tradition alive.
Her daughter, Happiness, is one of many artisans whose beading journey began under her mother’s guidance, continuing a legacy that has now been passed down through generations.
And if you think that’s impressive, wait until you hear what else keeps her busy.
Twice a week, Gogo heads to a local gym class led by a retired schoolteacher, where she exercises alongside six other gogos. During the visit, she even showed off a few of her favourite moves, leaving everyone amazed that she is well into her nineties.
The visit also became a celebration of family. Surrounded by daughters and grandchildren, Gogo welcomed her guests with stories, laughter and a live beading demonstration, working from the mat on her floor exactly as she has done throughout her life.
One of her grandchildren, currently in her third year of medical studies, happened to be home during the holidays and stepped in as interpreter, making the visit even more special.
Related Stories
Sebokeng Walk Raises Awareness About Independence for People With Visual Impairments
The Hidden Costs of Caring for 30 Children: A Foundation’s Plea for Ongoing SupportAt 92, Gogo MaGwala continues to stitch together more than beautiful beadwork. She is preserving culture and creating community.
by 
