In terms of the type of work done by the bead artisans, there are many different designs and some have intricate beadwork that takes many, many hours to complete. While this craft requires a certain amount of mindfulness and a good dose of patience, the women and men of all ages all agree that it is both meditative and extremely rewarding as several of us have experienced it.

As part of the Lithemba beadwork group, we can develop skills for young and old unemployed locals in our community. This is so that we and our families can make money, but also learn how to make jewellery from recycled telephone wire and beads.

I was blessed that Marianne Dobrautz paid it forward to me, Michelle, and now it is my turn to pay it forward to other crafters. COVID gave us the opportunity to work over the telephone, and we learned a lot.