THE director of Niza Designs Primary Cooperative, Siphokazi Kela, was recognised as the “Cooperative of the Year” among various local municipalities at the Presidential MSME and Cooperative Awards held at the Gallagher Convention Centre last week.
Kela shared her journey, explaining that she had progressed through the provincial finals, winning at that stage, and had gone on to represent the Eastern Cape Province in the national finals.
“I was one of the nominees for the Presidential MSME Awards, which were also held at the Gallagher Convention Centre.
“Although I did not make it to the final round, I am proud to have reached that level and to have networked with so many people,” said Kela.
She emphasised the significance of her achievement, stating that it was not an easy road.
Kela also mentioned that Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams announced there were 3,000 applications across all categories.
“I’m honoured to have been a nominee for the Best Cooperative of the Year. I founded Niza Designs as a sole trader in 2010 and later transitioned it into a cooperative, bringing other women on board. Today, it is a women-led cooperative specialising in sewing and beading.”
They manufacture innovative wall-hanging pictures as part of their business model.
“Right now, our main challenge is workspace. We are operating from a home garage with limited space, which is a constraint as our business grows.
“Our primary goal is to transfer skills to unemployed youth and other women-led cooperatives in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality.”
Kela encouraged young, unemployed individuals to remain hopeful.
She said that people who are interested in this industry must start with small beginnings, seek information, and keep knocking on doors—eventually, one will open.
