Our Background & Introduction

ABOUT US

SAIFA, the Southern African Institute For Artisans, is a non-profit organization committed to the holistic development of artisans and local communities. Established with a mission to enhance the skills, employability, and socio-economic well-being of artisans, SAIFA focuses on facilitation, training, mentoring, and placement within the artisanal sector. The organization extends its impact by actively participating in the implementation of large-scale community-based employment creation initiatives, including the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Community Work Programme (CWP).

CORE VALUES

Empowerment: We believe in empowering artisans with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in their craft, contributing to personal growth and professional success.

Community-Centric Approach: We are committed to the holistic development of local communities, actively engaging in initiatives that create sustainable employment opportunities and address the unique challenges faced by each community.

Collaboration: We foster collaborative partnerships with stakeholders, including artisans, industry leaders, government bodies, and local communities, to create a collective impact and drive positive change.

Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct in all our interactions, ensuring trust and credibility in our relationships with artisans, partners, and the community.

Innovation: We embrace innovation as a driving force behind continuous improvement, staying adaptive to industry advancements, and pioneering new solutions to address the evolving needs of artisans and communities.

Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate and respect the diversity of artisans and communities, fostering an inclusive environment that values different perspectives, backgrounds, and talents.

Sustainability: We are dedicated to promoting sustainable practices in artisanal work and community development, aiming for long-term positive impact on both the environment and society.

Excellence: We strive for excellence in all our programs and initiatives, setting high standards for training, mentorship, and placement services to ensure the success and satisfaction of artisans and the communities we serve.

These values guide SAIFA in its daily operations, decision-making processes, and interactions, reflecting our commitment to making a meaningful and lasting impact on the artisanal sector and local communities across Southern Africa.

OUR MISSION

To empower artisans and uplift local communities through comprehensive facilitation, training, mentoring, and placement programs, while actively contributing to the implementation of impactful community-based employment initiatives.

OUR VISION

To be the leading catalyst for artisanal excellence and community prosperity in Southern Africa, fostering a future where skilled artisans are empowered, communities thrive, and sustainable development is realized.

OBJECTIVES

Artisan Development: SAIFA is dedicated to equipping artisans with the necessary skills and knowledge through tailored training programs, fostering self-sufficiency and professional growth.

Community Development: The organization aims to enhance the socio-economic well-being of local communities by engaging in initiatives that create sustainable employment opportunities and contribute to community development.

Mentoring and Support: SAIFA provides mentorship programs to artisans, fostering a supportive environment for their professional development and well-being.

Placement Services: Facilitate the seamless integration of skilled artisans into the workforce by connecting them with employment opportunities aligned with their expertise and aspirations.

Community-Based Employment Initiatives: SAIFA actively participates in large- scale employment creation projects like EPWP and CWP, working collaboratively to address the unique needs of local communities and contribute to national development goals.