THE COOPERATIVE ALLIANCE
Schanwill Williams:
African Tufting Co.
A Note from the Oikos INTL Founders:
What we love about our job (there are many things) is finding those “pearls” in a vast ocean of poverty. Where there’s one pearl, there’s another one ready to form. Schanwill is that pearl amongst forming pearls. A young man determined to create the right environment for other pearls to develop. He can “taste” change and believes others can overcome through prayer, sobriety, hope and now transformation of his gang-filled community. Oceanview is a hard place. But it’s also beautiful at the same time. We believe in Schanwill and his nonprofit, the African Tufting Co.
Meet Schanwill
My name is Schanwill Williams and my journey as a community worker started in the impoverished township of Oceanview. Because of my past, having been in recovery now for several years, my heart yearns for a better Oceanview. I believe there will be a better Oceanview. I have dedicated myself to uplifting and empowering others.
From my early years, I witnessed the impact that unemployment, poverty, and substance abuse had on the lives of my community members. This fueled my passion to bring about positive change and create opportunities for those in need. Because there are so many in need, I have developed a journeyman apprentice program using creativity and business skills to uplift my community.
THE AFRICAN TUFTING CO. (Nonprofit)
Rug and Wall Art tufting is an African tradition that is slowly being outsourced to large industrial businesses. But there is a market for creative designers and artisans in the tourist destination of Cape Town. Being an artisan allows our community to create and sell artwork to both locals and tourists throughout the year.
For me, this is a ministry as art not only serves as a form of self-expression, but also as a means to generate employment opportunities for the talented individuals of Oceanview. By harnessing the creative skills within our community, we can not only uplift spirits, but also provide sustainable sources of income. This program provides a year-long apprenticeship that includes recovery fro drugs and alcohol in partnership with Oikos INTL, Celebrate Recovery and The Landing. We are excited to watch our community heal.
Join me in this mission to uplift, empower, and bring about positive change in the lives of those who need it the most. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a brighter future for Oceanview.