Step aside Jimmy Choo, these are Zulu power shoes!
If it stands still, Zulu women will bead it! I've seen everything from beaded teapots to cars. On my recent visit to South Africa, we stopped by Woza Moya – a fabulous bead craft shop run by the Hillcrest AIDS Centre near Durban. It’s filled with stunning beaded necklaces and objects. I spotted these ultimate glass slippers, the envy of any princess. These stilettoes are hand beaded in fine glass beads by a skilled Zulu beader Lindiwe Ngcobo.
This group also beaded a Chair of Life, a travelling art project that anyone can sit in to visualize dreams for the future. The beaded chair is a symbolic container of hope.
Hillcrest AIDS Centre is a place of positive energy and creativity. I love visiting them when I’m South Africa. The ladies are constantly coming up with new designs and create a good income from their fine beadwork. Most of the beaders are supporting 10 or more people on their needlework. Some beaders are even employing others and spreading the wealth.
You can visit this group with me on my tour to South Africa next year!
