HELP RECOVER MY CRAFT BUSINESS DURING THIS PANDEMIC

Hello! My name is Badumile Dlamini from Kwa Zulu Natal, in Durban, South Africa. I am the business owner of Badumi Beads cc (Facebook page link & Instagram) which has been operating for almost 10 years. 

My craft includes beaded products ranging from jewellery, clothing and accessories to homeware using tradition African beadwork techniques in both a traditional and contemporary way.

Up until the current Covid-19 pandemic, I employed 8 skilled local craftspeople. The revenue for the business was generated through sales at craft markets, retail arts and crafts shops and through local and international exhibitions.

Since the pandemic, sales have ceased as a result of the closure of shops, craft and art markets and exhibitions. With the lack of income, I have had to let go of 5 of my employees and I have now run out of funds to purchase raw materials.

For my creative craft business to survive during this time, I need to get my business on-line. This will require the purchase of a laptop and a website with an on-line shop to start selling the craft products. I will need to purchase new materials and packaging. The funds generated from the online shop will re-open opportunities for the employment of the craftspeople I had to let go during the pandemic.

I have estimated that I will need $5000 to restart the recovery of my crafts business. I am hoping that you can support me to do this. All contributions will be hugely appreciated.