Millions of women in Africa lack access to skills that could transform their lives. SHINE is changing that — one stitch, one woman, one life at a time.
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Across Africa, millions of women and girls face barriers that keep them trapped in cycles of poverty. In South Africa alone, youth unemployment exceeds 60%. For young women in townships and rural areas, the situation is even more dire.
SHINE believes they need more than charity — they need skills that lead to independence and dignity. Our compassionate team is here to guide women on their journey toward growth and self-discovery.
Explore Programs →Learn foundational and advanced sewing techniques — from basic stitching to creating garments for sale.
Gain business skills to turn your craft into income. Learn pricing, marketing, and sustainable business.
Join a supportive network of women lifting each other up. Guidance from mentors who believe in you.
Receive recognized certification upon completion. Flexible scheduling around your responsibilities.
I first met Susan Kristoferson through her husband, Larry Kapustka, at the 2016 SETAC World Congress in Orlando. We had already exchanged emails for two years, but meeting her in person left a profound mark on me.
"Susan exuded knowledge, intellect, passion, and a rare selflessness."
She introduced me to the Days for Girls project, and she and Larry travelled all the way to the meeting with a bag full of reusable sanitary pads for girls in rural South Africa.
One of the greatest lessons Susan imparted — without ever saying it aloud — was patience. When it took more than a year to distribute those pads, she never showed frustration. Instead, she offered empathy, understanding, and encouragement.
Her mentorship gently reshaped my thinking, deepened my awareness of women's struggles globally, and awakened my sense of purpose around socioeconomic justice.
Starting in Cape Town, expanding across Africa. This is just the beginning.
Susan believed in lifting others. Through SHINE, we will continue her work — one stitch, one woman, one life at a time. Let's honour Susan by helping women shine.
Whether you have skills to share, time to give, or resources to contribute — every action creates ripples of change.
Are you a skilled sewist or teacher? We're looking for Cape Town residents to share their knowledge.
Volunteer Now →
Women and girls aged 16+ in Cape Town — learn sewing and build a pathway toward independence.
Apply to Join →
NGOs, churches, schools, and businesses — join us through donations, sponsorships, or outreach.
Explore Partnerships →Questions? Contact us at admin@bcshive.co.za
Stay informed on everything happening at SHINE — from launches and events to stories of impact.
We officially opened the doors of SHINE — Susan's Hub for Innovation, Nurturing and Empowerment — at Milnerton Mall, Cape Town. The launch marked the beginning of a meaningful journey to empower women and girls through skills, creativity, and sustainable livelihoods. Read the full story inside.
Read the Full Story →Women and girls aged 16 and above in Cape Town are welcome. No prior sewing experience required — just a willingness to learn.
No. SHINE is fully funded by donors through the Diamond Valley Sustainable Living Centre in Canada. Training, materials, and certification are free.
Sewing fundamentals, garment construction, creative design, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business basics.
Remote supporters can help through donations, material sourcing, curriculum development, or establishing future centres.
Friends and family of the late Susan Kristoferson through the Diamond Valley Sustainable Living Centre in Canada, coordinated by BEE Solutions in Cape Town.
