Work-to-earn Programmes: Crafts
Adults earn Qhubeka bicycles by making cow bells or by crocheting blankets. The Work-to-earn programmes help individuals in rural communities to put their skills to use and provide a means of earning bicycles (which in turn can generate an income) in a region where unemployment is very high and opportunities are few and far between.
“The programme is popular because most women in the community are not working, so they are not earning. There are few activities for women to do here. The ladies enjoy crocheting because they do it together and it gives them a chance to socialise. It also helps with women empowerment. I am passionate about women empowerment, so I hope this project continues!”
Itumeleng Mmapaletsebe-Modutwane (aka Tumi), who helps to manage the Blankets for Bicycles programme
Some of the women involved in the programme have earned a number of bicycles. Many choose to keep one for their family, and sell or trade the others for goods, livestock or cash.