Busy Hands Visual Arts founder Cebsile Dlamini says her repeated participation at the Designed Giftionery Expo in Taipei, Taiwan, has paid off.
With development support from the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), Busy Hands Visual Arts was able to exhibit at the expo, in both 2023 and 2024.
Sharing her experience with EIPA, Dlamini said the repeat visits had enabled her to build strong relationships with buyers and significantly increase her brand’s visibility on the global stage.
“My experience in Taiwan was incredibly enriching,” Dlamini said.
She explained that the exposure helped her understand the importance of cultural adaptation and the value of building long-term relationships with overseas partners.
The participation of Busy Hands Visual Arts, alongside other Eswatini-based businesses, was supported by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and facilitated by EIPA.
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Busy Hands has also benefited from EIPA’s Export Readiness Training, a programme designed to equip local enterprises with the skills and knowledge required to enter international markets, followed by tailored export support.
Established in 2010, Busy Hands Visual Arts specialises in traditional attire, jewellery, clothing, bags and home décor, with each piece carrying a distinctive imprint of Eswatini’s rich cultural identity.
Rooted in craftsmanship and storytelling, the brand reflects Dlamini’s mission to preserve tradition while building a sustainable business.
Inspired by her mother’s artistic flair and entrepreneurial spirit, Dlamini said her creative journey was shaped early in life.
“I grew up in a creative environment and cultivated a love for artistic expression at a young age,” she said. “Seeing intricate pieces of handcraft come to life before my eyes really expanded my confidence as a creator. It showed me that the beauty I imagined could be made into a reality and shared with others.”
As Eswatini’s creative economy gains global traction, Busy Hands Visual Arts stands as a compelling example of how heritage, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships can transform local artistry into export success.
