South Africa is a mineral-rich country, so investment in small businesses that focus on using these is key; local designers are creating jewellery that is taking the international market by storm!
Johannesburg, South Africa (01 September 2022) – South African soil is alive with opportunity, from gold and diamonds to other precious metals and stones, all used in jewellery production. Investment in designers who use these minerals to make beautiful, local works of art means that the international market has access to some of the world’s most unique jewellery.
GIDZ is facilitating global growth opportunities for these local designers and small businesses. In the heart of one of South Africa’s export hubs, The OR Tambo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is being developed into a world-class area for manufacturers. GIDZ is spearheading the development of a jewellery manufacturing hub that will focus on creating these opportunities with tax incentives and ease of access for international exports and investments.
Several hopeful jewellery designers were taken in and taught how to create commercial-style jewellery with the sole purpose of exporting to an international market. Designers like Nonthando Molefe and Kealeboga Pule have loved the opportunities afforded to them to further the growth of their businesses and skills.
Nonthando Molefe from Phatsima Jewellers graduated from the SEZ Design @50 Skills Studio, where she learnt about international commercial jewellery and has been able to grow her business to take full advantage of the world’s interest in African luxury. Her pieces embody the spirit of South Africa and make for a treasured gift to any local or tourist looking to invest in her designs.
Kealeboga Pule from Nungu Diamonds has a love of working with locally sourced diamonds, and the expansion of his business through SEZ has meant so much to him and his wife. The business was inspired by the porcupine; Nungu in Swahili means porcupine. Just like a porcupine, the business may be small, but it is resilient.
Both Nonthando and Kealeboga have big dreams for their futures, and with the investment being made into the Special Economic Zone at OR Tambo, their dreams are on the fast track to becoming a reality!
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