Monkeybiz
Cape Town, South Africa
Reviving Tradition, Empowering Women
Monkeybiz is a renowned non-profit organisation based in Cape Town, South Africa, dedicated to the revival and celebration of traditional beadwork. Since its founding in 2000, Monkeybiz has focused on empowering women from under-resourced communities by creating sustainable employment opportunities while preserving the rich cultural heritage of South African beadwork.
The Timeless Art of Beading
Beading has deep roots in African culture, traditionally serving spiritual, ritualistic, and economic purposes. Through a modern revival, Monkeybiz reimagines these ancient practices, blending traditional techniques with contemporary designs to create art that is both culturally significant and aesthetically innovative.
A Global Collaboration
Global Village Artisans proudly collaborates with Monkeybiz to bring their vibrant handcrafted beadwork to our global customers. From their iconic beaded dolls to intricate artworks, each piece tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and the resilience of the women behind them. Our collaboration supports the artisans and contributes to the preservation of South Africa’s rich cultural traditions.