INSPIRED by his grandmother at a young age to create beautiful artwork, Linda Masinga (47) said he has never looked back.
Having learnt the intricate art of beadwork during his youth in eSikhawini, Masinga has not only established a business, but has also had the opportunity to exhibit his work in Africa and market some pieces in the United States.
‘I make jewellery, bags and traditional attire. I just love creating new designs and it makes me feel a little extra patriotic given that we have such a rich, beautiful culture,’ says Masinga.
‘My first exhibition was in 2005 at the Empangeni Art and History Museum. Many people were impressed by my work and I realised I had the talent. I just needed the paperwork,’ he chuckled.
‘So I joined the Zikhulise Community Upliftment Project to get more formal training in beadwork and went on to train further.’
‘In 2006 I started my business, ‘Constance Arts, Crafts and Designs’, named after my grandmother.
‘I attended exhibitions, trade fairs, flea markets, started making corporate gifts and soon after, managed to sell a few pieces in America.’.
Last year he was invited to an exhibition hosted by the KZN Department of Finance and was crowned as ‘Best Seller’ in the arts sector.
Later that year, the KZN Department of Tourism, in partnership with the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI), funded Masinga to attend an exhibition in Swaziland.
‘My eyes were opened to bigger opportunities and I then realised that my business has the potential to grow,’ he says.
Currently taking part in an entrepreneurial competition hosted by the ZCCI, Masinga has been shortlisted in the top 20.
‘I have been equipped with tools and knowledge to successfully manage my business. It has been a great experience.’
Apart from his first love of beading and crafts, Masinga, like most other South African men, also enjoys a good game of soccer.
