We were able to interview eight out of the hundred beaders involved in making Little Travellers. One gogo (Zulu for granny) shared with us that of her ten adult children, all but one have passed away, and she now cares for her five grandchildren. Yet, through all the pain that she's endured she is able to find joy and happiness in her life through beading Little Travellers. Before becoming involved in bead work and the Little Travellers, she was ashamed to walk out of the her own house because she didn't have money for food, or even shoes on her feet. Making Little Travellers has enabled her to support family, giving her and the hundred beaders added confidence and financial security, as the beaders are often the sole source of income in large households.
The beaders shared with us the love that they've experienced at Hillcrest AIDS Centre through being employed and the relationships they've made with staff. One male beader told us that he's recently been able to build a new seven room house from the money he's earned from beading Little Travellers. Listening to the hope and freedom that Little Travellers has brought so many people is encouraging, we know that what we are doing is making a difference in over 100 families lives. It's amazing to be a part of something so simple and beautiful. I hope this moves people to buy more dolls, because they aren't only providing people with income but empowering and uplifting people, making a difference in their lives as well as their families. It's true that something as small as a Little Traveller, is able to make a big difference in the world.
1 comment:
Good words.
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