Unique Driftwood Creations
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The free exhibition is an initiative of the Craft and Design Institute (CDI), and is the third such event hosted in Cape Town. It forms part of the CDI’s export development programme, which helps small and medium businesses in South Africa to develop and grow. Over 70 entrepreneurs have been participating in this programme, taking their design studio, workshop or manufacturing company to the ‘next level’, and onwards to the export market.
Launched in 2018, the NEXT Trade Exhibition has grown annually. The 2019 event drew in dozens of international trade buyers from a diverse array of countries including Denmark, France, Sweden, Italy and the US.
Product ranges to be showcased at the NEXT20 trade event include small furniture, lighting, home textiles, fashion and home accessories. Over a dozen new participants will take part this year, alongside more established makers.
Among those participating for the first time is OneOfEach, producers of bespoke African-inspired handbags and accessories, co-owned by Tamburai Chirume and her mother, Pauline.
 OneOfEach Kush Tote
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Award-winning sculptor, woodcarver and artist Boniface Chikwenhere, founder of Unique Driftwood Creations, is another new exhibitor who will showcase his beautiful carved pieces. Walk the Talk Africa will be showcasing its new range of handcrafted slippers which are made using fabric remnants, off-cuts and discontinued fabric books.