In Kliptown, Soweto wool is so much more than just colourful string. Dedicated mothers in the community are learning how to stitch strands of it into financial independence, self-confidence, and brighter futures for their families.
Soweto, South Africa (16 September 2026) – Materials and objects are all ‘just things’ until we give them meaning. In the community of Kilptown in Soweto, wool is so much more than just balls of colourful string. It empowers, inspires creativity and offers a path toward a sustainable livelihood.
Through Hamba Bamba Funda’s (HBF) crocheting skills development workshops launched earlier this year, the women and mothers of the community have been learning the craft of knitting and crocheting. The initiative aims to empower these women with practical skills to create handmade goods and generate an income for themselves and their families.
Following several months of dedicated practice, this talented group is now preparing for a Market Day on 11 October, where they will sell their beautiful handmade creations.
With hands stitching tirelessly and spirits uplifted by a shared hope for independence during their group sessions, their recent call for wool donations was met with heartwarming generosity. Ruen Govender from Hashtag Nonprofit blessed HBF’s Crochetikng Skills Development Project with another donation, couriered with love all the way from Cape Town.
“We handed the yarn out to a dedicated group of mothers in Kliptown, Soweto, who have already completed five workshops with Pieter van der Westhuizen from Flower Foundation Retirement Homes. Your generosity, Ruen, is helping build confidence, skill, and sustainability. It’s making a real difference,” HBF shared.
With only one workshop remaining before Market Day, these mothers are already weaving new possibilities for themselves and their community.
HBF expressed its pride in the mothers’ progress and highlighted the initiative’s impact:
“It has been extraordinary. Many are already knitting and selling their creations to generate income for their families.”
If anyone has scraps of yarn or extra wool to donate, consider reaching out to Hamba Bamba Funda. Every strand helps strengthen this initiative and the women behind it.
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