Hot Cares and Silverstar empower Diepsloot women’s sewing initiative for education and community growth

Hot Cares is proud to share the inspiring story of Joy Payi and her team of talented women in Diepsloot, who are transforming their sewing skills into a force for good. Faced with high unemployment, especially among women, Joy saw an opportunity to empower these ladies by mentoring them to create a sustainable business, producing educational bean bags that benefit children in early childhood development (ECD) programs, including those with special needs.

These bean bags are not just functional; they support literacy, motor skills, and learning in Diepsloot’s under-resourced schools. Through textile industry sponsorships, the team receives recyclable materials, which they use to craft the bean bags, donating them to schools while fulfilling other orders to earn a modest income.

However, to scale their impact, Joy and her team need essential equipment like industrial sewing machines and cutting tables. Silverstar has stepped in to provide up to R30,000 in much-needed equipment, thanks to the connection from a compassionate Hot 1027 listener and Hot Cares’ collaboration.

This partnership with Silverstar not only strengthens the group’s production but fosters a sustainable model of community development. Hot Cares, Silverstar, and Joy’s team are building a future in Diepsloot where skills create lasting, positive change. By empowering these women, we’re investing in a ripple effect that reaches families, the local economy, and the next generation of learners.