From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
May has been nothing short of exhilarating—our community came together in ways that reinforced our shared commitment to excellence. From in-depth technical workshops to candid industry feedback sessions, each moment has sparked new ideas and strengthened our collective vision. As we close this chapter, let’s carry forward the energy, insights, and connections we’ve forged into the months ahead.
Keep reading for a look back at May’s milestones and a preview of what’s next for our industry.
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Arsutoria Durban & Cape Town Workshops (5–13 May 2024)
This year’s Arsutoria Trend masterclass spanned Durban and Cape Town, with 41 participants diving deep footwear trends and techniques. We were delighted to welcome guest lecturer Valerio Baiardo, whose résumé includes stints designing and, in some cases, brand managing for Puma, Nike, Polo and Levi’s. His sessions were praised for their practical insights, and attendees especially enjoyed the hands-on demos and case studies and practical standpoint.
A heartfelt thank-you to our major sponsors—I LO, SAFLEC, EFLC and the Ostrich Export Council—for making these workshops possible. Congratulations to Tego, who earned a fully funded scholarship to Italy; we can’t wait to see what you’ll create next!
EFLC Brainstorming Session (May 2024)
Over 32 companies joined us to review current EFLC programs and offer candid feedback. The consensus was clear the industry was satisfied with the current programs. There were statements like… our industry speaks best with one unified voice. We emphasized that this session’s goal was alignment—ensuring EFLC initiatives, run by SAFLEC, meet real-world needs, our Industry’s needs, so participants suggested issuing an industry-wide questionnaire and convening a stakeholder meeting to gauge the sector’s health. We’ve already put those plans in motion.
Planning & Production Workshop Phase 2
By popular demand, we relaunched phase 2 of our Planning & Production series, led by Janine Govender. Twenty-nine attendees worked through advanced case studies, process maps and group exercises—and once again, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. This repeat engagement underscores our commitment to closing skill gaps where they matter most. We listen to what you want, and we action, implement and run it within record time. Meeting upon meetings for us are a waste of time. We believe that action speaks louder than words.
Guangzhou Footwear & Leather Show
Ten South African companies showcased at Guangzhou, focusing on luxury and exotic leathers with a custom stand that turned heads. Despite tight timelines—our DTIC funds arrived mid-trip, requiring delegates to self-finance initial costs—all participants reported successful sourcing and solid on-site orders. Highlights included strong sales for our game-skin exhibitor and boutique bag makers, affirming the value of BRICS-focused outreach.
World News (As Per World Footwear News)
Nike reports drop in revenue and profits in the third quarter
Nike’s net income fell 32 % to USD 0.8 billion, and diluted EPS declined 30 % to USD 0.54, driven by higher marketing spend and restructuring charges—though inventories eased by 2 % on a comparable basis World Footwear.
Source: World Footwear News
Are You Ready to Grow?
If you’re not a SAFLEC member—you’re missing out.
Join SAFLEC and unlock pathways to:
- Global markets and tradeshows
- Targeted funding opportunities
- National and international branding support
- Industry-led training programs
Don’t just watch the industry evolve—lead and be a part of it.
Contact: prenisha@saflec.co.za
Upcoming Events/Calendar
HS Codes Workshop with Trevor Michael
2 June 2025
Handbag 3D Design Course, Part 3 with Russell Addenal
10 – 12 June 2025
Marketing Masterclass with Stuart Hopwood
26 June 2025
New York trade show
3 – 5 June 2025
Comrades Expo Dtic
5 – 7 June 2025
Korea Trade show
7 – 9 July
All Fashion Sourcing
7 – 11 July 2025
Applications open for Dubai, Australia
Africa missions:
Cameroon
4 to 11 July 2025
Nigeria
12 to 19 July 2025
Kenya
5 to 12 September 2025
Ivory Coast
3 to 10 October 2025
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