Allan Gray Makers

09/10/2026

Do you want to help skilled artisans scale their businesses and access formal markets? 🤝

We are hiring an Access to Markets Lead for the Artisan Venture Hub to connect high-potential artisan ventures with procurement opportunities, supply chain networks, commercial contracts, and buyer ecosystems that can help to unlock sustainable revenue.

This is a fixed-term contract role based in Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Could this be you?

🔗 Apply via the link in bio by 18 October 2026.

09/10/2026

Introducing Phathutshedzo Phalanndwa, our Medium Business Category runner-up of Artisans of Mzansi 2026. 🏆

Phathutshedzo leads Autolink Technologies, a 100% black female-owned auto-electrical engineering business operating in a traditionally male-dominated industry. The workshop specialises in fault-finding, installing, rewiring, and running maintenance programmes for big heavy-duty fleets to meet strict manufacturer standards.

Beyond the workshop floor, Autolink Technologies runs its own auto body repair division and supplies parts to transport firms across the region.

08/10/2026

08/10/2026

Skilled hands are the backbone of South Africa's economy. That was the message from Minister Buti Manamela at the second annual South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA).

Factories, water systems, transport networks, and public infrastructure all rely on artisans. The National Development Plan calls for 30,000 qualified artisans a year, and the country is falling short of that number.

For us, recognising artisans is part of changing how South Africa sees the trades. SANAA, hosted by Allan Gray Makers in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), is one of the ways we do that.

Where do you see artisans holding up your community? Tell us in the comments.👇

06/10/2026

One month ago, Fusion Fest brought investors, artisans, policymakers, and mentors into the same room, each bringing a different piece of the puzzle to South Africa's trades. 🤝

It's a small part of a much bigger goal: building a coordinated ecosystem for artisan entrepreneurs by 2035.

For us, one lesson stood out: progress moves faster when the whole ecosystem pulls in the same direction. 💡

Drop your biggest takeaway from Fusion Fest 2026 in the comments. 👇

05/10/2026

Say hello to Aubrey Koma, our Medium Business Category winner of Artisans of Mzansi 2026. 🏆

Aubrey is the Managing Director and founder of Aubtec Kitchens, a custom carpentry and woodworking business based in Polokwane, specialising in custom kitchens and cupboards for homes and offices.

Originally from Matome Village in Zebediela, Limpopo, Aubrey says his win is proof that great things are possible no matter where you're from. He encourages young people to chase opportunities such as Artisans of Mzansi and to never stop chasing their dreams.

Every great artisan business starts with someone taking the first step. If that's you, let this be your sign. 🔨

30/09/2026

Congratulations to Richard Sello Maswanganyi, our Small Business Category runner-up at Artisans of Mzansi 2026. 🏆

Richard is a qualified and licensed plumber and a solar geyser and heat pump specialist based in Pretoria. He founded BotseBotse Plumbing and Welding Works and has led it as CEO since 2022.

From bathroom renovations to leak detection, Richard's team has worked on projects including waterproofing at Botshilu Hospital, proof that patience and observation can grow a trade into a business that serves whole communities.

28/09/2026