Monkeybiz is an inspired craft art collective that rejuvenates the traditional African art of beading while at the same time providing opportunities for women in poverty. Monkeybiz is a non-profit organisation that started in South Africa in 2000 and is committed to women’s empowerment. The services of Monkeybiz include a Wellness clinic, dealing predominantly with issues relating to HIV/AIDS and offering free consultations with volunteer homeopaths and medical doctors, soup kitchen for basic nutrition, yoga classes, a choir, drama workshops, a crèche and burial fund. Monkeybiz is based on the philosophy of making the women self-sufficient, to understand business and take responsibility. The women work in their own homes, are still able to raise their families and take care of household duties. Their traditional women’s work is being recognised, valued and utilised to their advantage where it would normally go unpaid and unnoticed.

"When something is made with love, people really appreciate the beauty"
-Phathiswa Ncaphayal, 33 lives in Samora Michel, South Africa with her two children.