At 36, Nontombi Biyela from KwaSkhemelele, Jozini, is turning her beadwork skills into hope and opportunity for her family and community.
Nontombi began selling beadwork in 2020, inspired by her late grandmother, who taught her this valuable skill. Today her work helps support her children, put food on the table, create opportunities for other women. She also teaches young women in her community how to make beadwork and earn an income.
Her journey shows traditional skills can support families, create opportunities, and keep our heritage alive.
Nontombi encourages women to believe in themselves and make use of the opportunity they have.
‘’You must work with the little you have to gain a lot,’’ she says.
She remains grateful to her late grandmother, whose teachings helped her build a better future. Through her journey, Nontombi shows that a skill passed through generations can became a source of hope, independence, and opportunity.
Her story reminds us that meaningful change can begin with something as simple as one bead.
Ayanda Ngubane
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