"ifa crafted", meaning "inheritance" in isiZulu, embodies the concepts of "indlalifa" — those entrusted with passing down legacy — and "ukuloba ngezandla" ("thinking with hands"), says KZNSA.

Launched in 2025 by KZNSA with support from the FirstRand Foundation, the project has engaged over 80 crafters from rural communities across KwaZulu-Natal, including, but not limited to, Ixopo, Ntshongweni, Hlabisa, eManguzi, Rorke's Drift, Greytown, Cato Ridge, Mthwalume, Mbazwane and the Valley of a Thousand Hills, adds KZNSA.

Through an intensive collaborative co-design process led by Angela Shaw (KZNSA), beadwork artist Hlengiwe Dube, Gary Cotterell and other contributing designers, rural KwaZulu-Natal artisans have reinterpreted age-old techniques across mediums including beading, telewire and wire weaving, ilala palm and grass weaving, tapestry, ceramics, wood carving, embroidery and textile printing, says KZNSA.

The resulting collections aim to elevate traditional craft into aspirational luxury homeware, décor, jewellery and collectibles that honour cultural heritage while speaking confidently to contemporary global tastes, adds KZNSA.

Several artisans attended the exhibition, sharing their personal stories and skills:

  • Nomfundo Mkhize: A beadwork and textile specialist from the Valley of a Thousand Hills, known for intricate patterns that aim to weave personal and communal narratives into contemporary forms.
  • Angeline Masuku: An ilala palm weaver from northern KwaZulu-Natal, whose tightly coiled baskets and vessels aim to reflect generations of knowledge passed down in her community.
  • Busisiwe Mayise: A telewire weaver whose bold, colourful works aims to transform recycled materials into vibrant statements of resilience and innovation.
  • Sibusiso Mthembu: A wire artist who shapes metal into dynamic sculptures and functional objects that aim to bridge rural tradition with urban sophistication.

"ifa crafted has opened doors we never imagined — from our rural homes to spaces like Sandton," says Busisiwe Mayise. "Seeing people appreciate the stories in every weave has been truly special. This initiative has given us a platform to share our heritage while building sustainable futures for our families. We are grateful and proud."

The project's impact aims to reach far beyond "beautiful objects". By offering professional design collaboration, e-commerce access, high-profile exhibitions and international market exposure, ifa crafted has aimed to deliver increased income, greater confidence and a stronger professional identity for participants, says KZNSA.

It aims to provide a replicable, ethical model for rural creative enterprise that balances innovation, heritage preservation and inclusive economic growth in marginalised communities, adds KZNSA.

"Initiatives like ifa crafted demonstrate the profound transformative power of strategic partnerships in preserving South Africa's rich cultural heritage while creating sustainable pathways for economic empowerment," says Kone Gugushe, Head of Social Investing at FirstRand.  

"By uplifting rural talent and ensuring that ancient knowledge continues to thrive in contemporary contexts, we are investing not just in artisans, but in the enduring legacy of communities for generations to come. We are deeply proud to support this vital work and to celebrate the remarkable artisans alongside KZNSA," concludes Gugushe.

For more information, visit www.ifacrafted.com. You can also follow KZNSA on Facebook, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor