Many say invention is the mother of necessity and that rings true here. The centre needed a way to generate income to cover operating expenses like food and supplies so in September 2017, Patricia “Mama Monisah” Arnold created the Charity Shop, to generate income for the centre. In 2020, after Mama Monisah passed away, centre volunteers Loraine and Gladys started producing products from traditional African fabrics. Currently, these products are sold under the brand name “Little Rose Atelier Soweto” to visitors and market vendors.
The atelier makes almost anything from large waterproof shopping bags, aprons and padded pouches for your tablet or laptop. You can buy beautiful kimonos, duvet covers and pillowcases that would be perfect for friends and family and you can even use their wax fabric shoe bags to package your gift. Other products include decorative lavender scent bags, water bottle holders and towels in Shweshwe fabrics and Ndebele prints. They are proudly South African in every sense.
The centre’s focus is on helping less fortunate and more vulnerable community members. They abide by the principle: “I receive so I give back to my community,” which they say helps foster mutual trust, creates awareness and gives relief and love to those who need it the most.
Empowerment and sustainability are core values of Little Rose Atelier Soweto. Sales proceeds are distributed to producers as salaries, to the centre, and then reinvested in the studio. Their products are high quality and reusable, with a strong commitment to sustainability and local business development. We think they are a brand to watch.
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