The 2008 REDY! Workshop was organized by Aid to Artisans with great success. For the first time, Aid to Artisans, in conjunction with its subsidiary organization Aid to Artisans South Africa Trust, facilitated the 2008 REDY! Workshop held November 18 – 19, 2008 in South Africa. The gathering was a unique opportunity to develop strategies for sustainable craft growth with industry professional who are committed to improving the quality of life for artisans and craft enterprises in the southern Africa region.
At the workshop, dozens of leaders on the forefront of southern Africa’s thriving craft industry forged a plan for future success. Attendees included both private and public sector participants from six southern African nation–Mozambique, Lesotho, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and South Africa. Attendees came from diverse backgrounds and represented artisans, exporters, government and NGOs working in craft, tourism, environment, culture and eduction, tourism industry professionals, designers and buyers. This multi-faceted leadership approach to craft sector development is needed to maximize success not only in terms of sales and market links, but also in the sector’s contribution to environmentally responsible production and health and safety on the job.
In small groups, participants built alliances and developed practical action steps to create positive change across tourist, regional and international markets. They discussed topics ranging from southern African tourism trends, to ethical sourcing and the green market. As a collaborative group, they developed regional and country specific action plans for the craft sector, which is the second largest sector of economic growth in developing countries after agriculture.
Congratulations to Lorraine Johnson, Robert Karanja and all of the ATA South Africa staff for making this first workshop a huge success!
"Aid to Artisans and Aid to Artisans South Africa Trust are honored to host REDY! We are eager to form creative synergies with likeminded leaders who aspire to bring continued success to the craft sector," said Aid to Artisans President, David O’Connor
