Spiritual Inspiration Fuels Young Artisan’s Mission to Preserve Cultural Legacy
ZVISHAVANE – Midlands State University student Amanda Chikumbu (31) is driven to preserve Zimbabwe’s vibrant cultural heritage, harnessing the beauty of traditional beadwork and crafts.
Speaking exclusively to AfroGazette News, Chikumbu revealed that spiritual inspiration ignited her passion for bead-making and traditional crafts, with her dreams supplying designs and materials that inform her creative process.
“I believe my creativity is spiritually guided. Dreams reveal innovative designs, and I sometimes receive rare materials. One notable instance was receiving a bead crafted from a water lily flower (Garadziva/Mahapa), which my brother and I had gathered.”
Amanda’s craft stall showcases an array of stunning pieces reflecting her creativity and resourcefulness.
“My craft stall features a diverse range of handmade pieces, all crafted from natural materials. From seeds to animal skins, each material inspires a unique creation: beautiful beads, striking jewelleries elegant curtains, intricate lampshades, and sturdy safari hats and shoes. Each piece tells a story, connecting us to our rich cultural heritage.”
She stresses the importance of preserving cultural heritage through crafts for younger generations, as it helps build identity, community, and tradition.
“Preserving cultural heritage through crafts is like passing down a piece of ourselves to the next generation. It’s not just about making beautiful things, but about keeping our stories, traditions, and values alive.”
As a young entrepreneur,Chikumbu faces significant challenges, including limited funding and societal perceptions.
“Securing financial support for local crafts is daunting, as many organizations view them as unprofitable or old-fashioned. Yet, local crafts have a significant impact, creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and promoting sustainable development.”
Amanda’s unwavering passion inspires others to discover and cherish Zimbabwe’s vibrant cultural heritage with the ultimate goal of building resilient communities and preserving cultural identity.
“Local crafts offer a sustainable counterpoint to fast consumerism and foster cultural exchange. We must redefine the narrative to recognize the substantial economic benefits and value of local crafts, said Chikumbu”.
The Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture supports local artisans through grants, market platforms, and international exchange programs, while fostering sustainable livelihoods and cultural development.
Reward Shockson, Provincial Arts and Culture Development and Promotions Officer, showcased the ministry’s initiatives supporting local artisans.
“Amanda benefited from our programs, receiving a grant and a sales platform at Shabani Mine Arts and Culture Centre. We secured this opportunity to empower her to turn her craft into a viable livelihood.”
“In 2016, I secured a prime trading space for Mr. Phiri, a talented local artist, who is trading in front of Zvishavane Town Council, enabling him to showcase and sell his artwork. Furthermore, I accompanied Phiri to India in February this year where he successfully sold his artwork within an impressive two weeks”.
Shockson also stated that, “Through the government’s COVID-19 allowance, 167 artists in Midlands Province benefited.”
Shockson encouraged the young entrepreneur to prioritize preserving Zimbabwean cultural heritage while expanding her product line.
“Keep working hard, Amanda,produce more goods in large quantities and you will succeed. Zimtrade is urging artists with skills like yours to increase production and we will help you sell your work in Germany, Italy and other international markets, he said”.
