Calling all high school teachers and principals!
Allan Gray Makers is excited to announce the launch of an Artisans of Mzansi Campaign Pilot where they would like to VISIT YOUR SCHOOL and measure the perception change towards the technical and vocational trades among South African youth.
What this would practically entail is having your grade 9 learners complete these 3 easy steps:
1 Fill in a baseline survey
2 Watch our Artisans of Mzansi video
3 Complete an online survey
If you are interested in encouraging your students to consider artisanship as a desirable career choice, get in touch via email at smofokeng@aggpsa.org to arrange a school visit at your school!
Spread the word! Please share with high school teachers, principals, or school
administrators, that you know!

What is this all about?
Artisanship refers to the skill, craft, and expertise involved in creating handmade goods. It emphasizes quality craftsmanship, highlights traditional techniques, and attention to detail in and around craftsmanship. Artisans often produce unique or custom items, ranging from pottery and textiles to furniture and jewelry, using methods passed down through generations.
The value in artisanship lies not only in the final product but also in the process and the cultural heritage it represents.
What would make artisanship a desirable career choice?
Artisanship can be a desirable career choice for several reasons:
1. Creativity and Expression: Artisanship allows individuals to express their creativity and personal style through their work, often leading to a fulfilling and satisfying career.
2. Unique and Personalized Work: Unlike mass-produced items, handmade goods are unique and often personalized, giving artisans a sense of pride and accomplishment in their creations.
3. Cultural Preservation: Many artisanal techniques are passed down through generations, making this career a way to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage and traditions it would be very interesting how AGM interprets the cultural background per demographic or community.
4. Quality and Craftsmanship: Artisanship emphasizes quality and attention to detail, appealing to those who take pride in their work and strive for excellence.
5. Economic Independence: Many artisans run their own businesses, giving them the freedom to set their own schedules, prices, and business practices.
6. Sustainable Practices: Artisanal work often involves sustainable and eco-friendly practices, attracting individuals who are passionate about the environment and responsible consumption.
7. Community and Connection: Artisans often build strong relationships with their customers and local communities, fostering a sense of connection and support.
8. Niche Markets: There is a growing appreciation for handmade and artisanal goods, providing opportunities for artisans to tap into niche markets and cater to specific customer needs.
9. Personal Growth and Learning: The continuous learning and improvement of skills required in artisanship can lead to personal growth and a lifelong journey of mastery.
10. Job Safety & Satisfaction: This can be the primary source to ones income, and the tangible results and feedback of an Artisans labor from satisfied customers can lead to high job satisfaction for artisans.
See more here Allan Gray Makers
