From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
Opportunity is here. With courage and creativity, we turn challenges into victories and place South African craftsmanship on the global stage…”
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Table of Content
- SEDFA Webinar Empowers Brands Through Visual Storytelling
- Micro Export Program Empowers 10 South African Businesses for Global Growth
- Stepping into the Future: 3D Footwear Design Training Empowers Local Brands
- Collaborating for Market Insight: SAFLEC, SACTWU, and the German Chamber Explore Entry into Germany
- Trade Shows – October Highlights
- Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
- Calendar & Upcoming Events
- Social Media
The number speak for itself with over 50 companies participating find out why AI Tuesdays are the new buzz. The AI Tuesday’s programme is designed to take delegates from curiosity to confidence and capability in just five sessions. This is not theory — it’s hands-on, industry-focused learning.
What delegates are learning?
- AI landscape & responsibilities: understanding opportunities, privacy, ethics, and data security.
- Structured prompting: the essential skill of communicating with AI effectively, usable across any current or future tool.
- Marketing & content creation: generating campaigns faster, repurposing material with precision, and reducing reliance on external agencies.
- Design & visual assets: producing professional graphics and product visuals in-house.
- Websites & Shopify stores: learning how AI can support credible online presence, streamline e‑commerce, and strengthen competitiveness in global markets.
- Personal adoption plan: each delegate leaves with a clear roadmap for integrating AI into their daily work, aligned to their goals and capacity.
Why it matters for our industry.
For footwear and leather manufacturers, AI is a competitive advantage:
- Build stronger online stores and Shopify sites that attract international buyers.
- Market faster and smarter, with content tailored to global audiences.
- Reduce costs by bringing design and digital capability in-house.
- Establish a credible online presence that positions South African brands alongside global leaders.
Through weekly practice and guided reflection, delegates will shift from “watching AI happen” to actively using it. The result is not dependency, but empowered professionals who know how to interrogate, guide, and harness AI to drive efficiency, creativity, and competitiveness in our sector. We believe in empowering and we will continue to do so. See you next Tuesday!!!!
Our recent Networking and Brainstorming Session brought together 63 stakeholders and members for a day of powerful dialogue, collaboration, and forward-looking ideas. The energy in the room reflected the industry’s commitment to growth, alignment, and innovation.
Panel Discussion 1: Retailer Perspectives
Michael Lawrence, Kyle Ballard (MRP), Tavonga Gonyora, and Ashley Benjamin unpacked the challenges and opportunities facing retailers today. The conversation explored how manufacturers can better align with retail expectations, the realities of labour inputs, and the opportunities for collaboration to strengthen supply chains.
Panel Discussion 2: Incentives & Government Priorities
Francois Bietrix (TIKZN), Ntokozo Dali (EDTEA), Nyambeni Nemadodzi (dtic), and Dimakatso Moji (dtic) provided clarity on available incentives and government priorities. Their insights highlighted how policy and support structures can empower manufacturers to expand capacity, embrace innovation, and compete globally.
Amazon Onboarding
Mpho Modisa presented on Amazon’s onboarding programme, showing how small, medium, and large enterprises can leverage online platforms to reach new markets. The message was clear: going online is not optional — it’s a gateway to growth.
Success Stories
Devan Swanepoel (WEEF) inspired delegates by proving that exports are possible even without a strong local market. His story demonstrated resilience, creativity, and the power of thinking globally.
Messe Frankfurt Opportunities
Natasha Pearce shared how international trade fairs provide unmatched exposure, positioning South African footwear and leather brands alongside global leaders.
Round Table Inputs
Delegates engaged in round table sessions, offering valuable input into the success of EFLC projects managed by SAFLEC. The discussions generated fantastic ideas for the way forward, ensuring projects remain aligned with industry needs.
Exciting New Leadership
The session also marked the introduction of the new Director for Footwear and Leather at dtic, alongside SAFLIA’s new Executive Director. With labour NULAW present, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation — signalling that new and exciting developments could be on the horizon.
Why these matters
This session was not just about sharing information — it was about shaping the future together. By gathering input directly from industry, SAFLEC ensures that its programmes and offerings are aligned with real challenges, opportunities, and priorities. The outcome is a stronger, more connected sector ready to embrace innovation, digital transformation, and global competitiveness.
Upcoming Shows
- Australia
- Vietnam
- New York Now
- Atlanta Shoes
- Germany ILM
- Namibia
Upcoming Training
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AI Tuesdays
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Planning and Production Workshop 04 March 2026
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Quality Control 05 March 2026
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2-day 3D Footwear and Handbag workshop with Russell Addinall 18 & 19 March 2026
- Africa Missions
This is your chance to learn, grow, and prepare for the future with confidence. Together, we are shaping an industry that is competitive, sustainable, and proudly South African.
Not a SAFLEC member yet? The industry isn’t waiting—and neither should you. Get access to funding, exclusive trade missions, premium training, and more. Email prenisha@saflec.co.za to unlock the benefits.
Stay Connected Let’s keep flying the flag for South African craftsmanship together—follow us and be part of the story:
Let’s keep moving forward positively no matter the challenges.
Warm regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC