Philipstown Draadkar women journey to Hofmeyr for inspiration

A Long Way for the Draadkar Women

Four women from the Philipstown Draadkar (wire car) NPC left their respective homes in Philipstown before 6am on Wednesday, 4 February, to travel to Hofmeyr.

“We wanted to see the most beautiful pink church in South Africa, and we also wanted to see what the village looked like. But above all, we came to ask for advice,” says Philipstown entrepreneur Esmé Grobler.

The group made the long journey because they hope to start several new projects in Philipstown in the near future. Judi van der Linde, Zelna Tokani, Lida McQuide and Grobler arrived together at Hugs of Hope in Hofmeyr, filled with excitement.

Conversation flowed easily as tips were exchanged, quilting and patchwork patterns were shared, beadwork items and packs of beads were examined, and containers of lace were searched for “that piece that will fit perfectly on a finished article”. A relaxed coffee chat added to the warm atmosphere.

The 270km trip from Philipstown, according to the travellers, included navigating heavy truck traffic. A wrong turn near the end of the journey — after following the GPS onto a dirt road — tested their nerves, but despite the intense heat in Hofmeyr, the group soon relaxed and thoroughly enjoyed the visit.

At Hugs of Hope in Hatting Street, Gladys Hayiya showed the visitors around the sewing room, filled with sewing machines, beautiful fabrics, and both finished and half-finished quilts.

For a while, the hustle and bustle at Hugs of Hope came to a standstill as everyone enjoyed the opportunity to connect and share ideas. Keep an eye on Philipstown’s Draadkar association — they have big plans, and these women know exactly what they want to achieve.