Economic Empowerment
At MOSAIC, we believe in breaking the cycle of violence by addressing the structural barriers that inhibit women’s economic productivity.
Through our continuum of care model, we activate women’s agency, equipping survivors with valuable skills that allow them to secure stable employment, start their own businesses, or engage in income-generating activities. Our aim is to enable women to make independent choices without the pressure of financial dependency, leading to increased self-esteem and reduced vulnerability to future violence and abuse. With improved economic prospects, survivors are better positioned to escape abusive relationships, seek legal recourse, and establish safer, independent lives for themselves and their children.
#Pieces2Peace Sewing Project
Launched in 2020, the #Pieces2Peace sewing project offers training in basic sewing skills, unlocking doors to economic freedom for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). This initiative is designed to support survivors on their journey towards healing and economic independence, providing comprehensive training and opportunities for skill development that empower individuals to achieve financial stability and personal growth.
Project Evolution and Support: Since its inception, #Pieces2Peace has trained women from MOSAIC counselling sites in Mitchells Plain, Philippi, Wynberg, and Khayelitsha. This project was established with funding from the Charlize Theron Outreach Africa Project for COVID-19 relief and has been sustained by the ELMA South Africa Foundation. #Pieces2Peace has now evolved into a three-tier project with an incubator that employs some of the women as part of MOSAIC’s social enterprise, preparing them for larger opportunities. We aim to grow the programme to generate enough income for self-sustainability.
PROGRAMME LEVELS:
Participants are identified by social workers and receive basic sewing skills training over two weeks, covering pattern making, cutting, sewing techniques, and safety protocols. Travel allowances and food parcels are provided to remove any financial pressure during this period.
Participants undergo an 8-week comprehensive training in sewing, pattern making, design, and more, culminating in the creation of a complete garment. Successful participants receive a certificate and can apply for the advanced Level 3 course. Travel and monthly food parcels are provided.
Selected participants join the MOSAIC incubator for a 24-week course focusing on empowerment, self-esteem building, personal development, and entrepreneurship skills. Participants receive a monthly stipend, travel allowance, and food parcels. Upon graduation, participants can join the MOSAIC incubator or start their own businesses, equipped with their own sewing machines.
Products and Services:
Through #Pieces2Peace, MOSAIC produces a variety of handcrafted products, symbolising resilience and strength:
- Safety Bags: Distributed to clients at courts and Thuthuzela Care Centres, symbolising security and comfort.
- Reusable Sanitary Wear: Promoting dignity and hygiene among survivors and vulnerable individuals.
- Apparel Line: Celebrating African culture with kaftans, kimonos, and bomber jackets adorned with vibrant prints.
- Accessories: Practical convenience bags of various sizes to complement the apparel line.
- Bespoke Designs: Custom-made designs for organisations, companies, or individuals.
Additional Training and Educational Opportunities
MOSAIC also offers training and educational opportunities through the Peonies Shelter and community-based programmes:
- Computer Training Centre: Equipped with desktops and training spaces for literacy, numeracy, and other educational courses.
- Entrepreneurship Training: Focused on creating income streams for women in rural areas.
- Additional Courses:
- NQF Level 4 FETC: Counselling Training
- Work Readiness Workshops (6-week course)
- Basic Business Skills
- Catering Skills Course (MOSAIC Kitchen)
- Hospitality
- Hair, Nail & Beauty
- Arts and Crafts
MOSAIC’s programmes aim to stitch lives together, one piece at a time, weaving a tapestry of resilience, strength, and hope.
Contact Us
Send us an email: admin@mosaic.org.za or info@mosaic.org.za
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Mitchell’s Plain Office
Cnr Pyrennes & Kilimanjaro
Tafelsig
Mitchell’s Plain
7785
+27 (0)21 397 3291
Philippi Office
Khanyisa Centre
Philippi
7785
Walk-In Centre
Paarl East Office
Paarl Magistrate Court
Cnr of Mark & Bergrivier Blvd S
Paarl
7646
Walk-in Centre