From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
October Reflections: Empowering Growth Through Knowledge and Collaboration
As we move into October, SAFLEC continues to champion the spirit of progress, innovation, and shared learning within South Africa’s footwear, leather goods, and handbag industry. The past months have reaffirmed that empowerment begins with knowledge — and that collective growth is driven by collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement.
Our commitment remains focused on equipping members with the skills and insights needed to thrive in global markets. From digital storytelling to export readiness and design enhancement, SAFLEC’s programmes continue to create opportunities that transform potential into performance.
By fostering an environment where information flows freely, partnerships are strengthened, and excellence is celebrated, we ensure that South African craftsmanship not only competes globally but also inspires internationally. Together, we are shaping an industry that grows smarter, stronger, and more connected with every step forward.
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
- Calendar & Upcoming Events
- Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
- Social Media
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
In a digital-first world, where perception shapes opportunity, the recent SEDFA webinar titled “Remembering the Stories: Creating Better Content for Your Target Market” offered a timely and transformative learning experience. SAFLEC was proud to share this session with our members, reinforcing our commitment to sector-wide development and the power of collaborative knowledge.
Held on 23 October 2025, this online event brought together creative professionals, brand builders, and content strategists for a deep dive into the art and impact of visual storytelling. From product photography to platform consistency, the webinar delivered practical insights that can elevate South African brands in global markets.
What Members Learned:
- Why Professional Photography Matters: Building trust and emotional resonance.
- Product Pack Shots: Creating clarity and desire.
- Lifestyle Photography: Capturing the story behind the product.
- Website Imagery: Enhancing user experience and brand cohesion.
- Collaboration with Social Media Managers: Aligning visuals with strategic messaging.
- Consistency Across Digital Platforms: Strengthening brand identity and recognition.
At SAFLEC, we believe that shared opportunities lead to shared success. By circulating this SEDFA-led initiative, we ensured our members had access to tools that not only refine their content but also amplify their market presence. In today’s competitive landscape, such knowledge is not just useful—it’s essential.
We thank our stakeholder partners for their continued collaboration and look forward to bringing more high-impact learning experiences to our community. Together, we shape how South African excellence is seen, celebrated, and remembered—one image at a time.
From 6–13 October 2025, SAFLEC, EFLC, and Productivity SA proudly hosted a dynamic 6-day Micro Export Program, designed to equip emerging South African businesses with the tools, insights, and confidence to enter global markets.
With only 10 companies selected—the maximum allowed—this intensive program offered tailored, high-impact training across critical export readiness areas. Each participant also benefited from one-on-one sessions to identify growth opportunities and areas where strategic support could unlock new potential.
What Made This Program Exceptional:
- SAFLEC Training: Focused on company readiness for exports and how to apply for funding—essential steps for scaling internationally.
- Marketing & Sales Expertise: A seasoned trainer guided participants on how to position their products effectively, build buyer relationships, and drive export sales.
- Trade Agreements & Market Access: Another expert unpacked the complexities of global trade, helping businesses understand how to leverage agreements for smoother entry into new markets.
- Productivity SA Modules: Delivered practical training on SWOT analysis, export strategy, and business planning—ensuring companies are not only export-ready but export-smart.
This collaborative initiative reflects SAFLEC’s ongoing commitment to shared stakeholder opportunities, sector upliftment, and strategic empowerment. By investing in targeted, hands-on development, we’re helping South African businesses tell their stories on the world stage—with confidence, clarity, and competitiveness.
From 30 September to 2 October 2025, seven forward-thinking South African companies took part in an intensive Russell 3D Footwear Design Training, a hands-on workshop proudly facilitated through SAFLEC’s EFLC cluster.
This cutting-edge session introduced participants to the latest in digital footwear design—an essential skillset as the global industry pivots toward faster, more sustainable, and visually dynamic product development. Over three days, attendees explored the full potential of 3D design tools, from concept creation to virtual prototyping, gaining both technical proficiency and creative inspiration.
Why This Training Mattered:
- Accelerates Product Development: 3D design reduces sampling time and costs.
- Enhances Market Readiness: Digital prototypes help brands respond faster to trends and buyer feedback.
- Supports Sustainability: Less waste, fewer physical samples, and smarter production planning.
- Boosts Export Appeal: International buyers increasingly expect digital design capabilities.
Each of the seven participating companies also received individualised support, ensuring they could apply the tools to their own brand needs and identify areas for growth and assistance.
At SAFLEC, we’re proud to champion innovation and capacity-building across our sector. By investing in future-ready skills like 3D design, we’re not just keeping pace—we’re setting the pace for South African excellence in global footwear.
In a joint effort to identify pathways for South African manufacturers to enter the German market, SACTWU, the German Chamber of Commerce, and SAFLEC recently collaborated on an insightful session focused on understanding international buyer expectations and market access requirements.
The discussion provided valuable context on the current global trading environment, revealing that many of the pressures faced by South Africa’s footwear and leather sector are mirrored worldwide. Despite shared challenges such as rising costs and shifting consumer trends, the session highlighted clear opportunities for South African producers — particularly within the safety and protective wear segment, where demand remains strong.
The collaboration reaffirmed that South Africa’s strengths in quality production and ethical manufacturing align well with German market priorities. With the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) serving as a platform for continued partnership, SAFLEC looks forward to supporting members in leveraging these insights to build meaningful trade relationships and expand into Europe’s high-value markets.
Fashion World Tokyo
Fashion World Tokyo
Fashion World Tokyo
Export Symposium
Export Symposium
October was an inspiring month of visibility and engagement for South African brands on both international and local stages.
Fashion World Tokyo (01–03 October 2025) offered an excellent platform for South African exhibitors to connect with Japanese and global buyers. The show reinforced Japan’s growing appreciation for distinctive craftsmanship and sustainable design — qualities that define our local industry. Participants showcased innovative footwear and leather products that captured attention for their originality and quality.
Closer to home, the Export Symposium Exhibition in Midrand (14–16 October 2025) brought together exporters, stakeholders, and trade promotion agencies under one roof. SAFLEC’s presence at this exhibition amplified awareness of South Africa’s export-ready capabilities, while exhibitors gained exposure to potential buyers, funding partners, and support agencies.
Together, these events demonstrated how both international and domestic platforms contribute to SAFLEC’s mission — expanding market access, strengthening brand visibility, and positioning South African products for global growth.
Workshops & Training
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1 Week Sewing Workshop – November 2025
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:
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC