Some of the H18 crew from left are; H18 Chairwoman Rashieda Panday, Senior Artisan Jane Manda, H18 founder, Amanda Solomon, and an artisan called Loveness
Image: SUPPLIED
As South Africans observe Human Rights Day on Saturday, March 21, a Milnerton-based organisation is marking 10 years of empowering women and families in vulnerable communities — while highlighting the everyday meaning of human rights.
Founded in 2016 by Amanda Solomon, the H18 Foundation works with unemployed women from Joe Slovo Park and Phoenix, equipping them with practical skills to build sustainable livelihoods.
Through initiatives such as crochet and textile upcycling, the organisation has helped women generate an income — often the only source of support in their households.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, Ms Solomon said human rights must be understood beyond policy.
“Human rights are not theoretical; they are experienced in the everyday realities of people’s lives. For many, it’s about dignity, the ability to earn a living, and the opportunity to build a stable future for their families,” she said.
Around 150 women have participated in H18’s programmes over the years, with a strong focus on self-sufficiency.
When Tabletalk visited the organisation in 2023, women were seen crafting mats and other products — work that not only sustains households but restores confidence and purpose ("Helping women and children one stitch at a time," Tabletalk, Wednesday, November 15, 2023)
Ms Solomon said the organisation’s approach has always been rooted in listening to the community's needs.
“Communities are not static, and neither are people’s needs. We try to understand what individuals identify as their most pressing challenges, rather than assuming what support they need.”
Beyond skills development, H18 has also contributed to early childhood development through initiatives such as Mana Preschool, which provided a nurturing learning environment while enabling mothers to seek work or build small businesses, said Ms Solomon.
Today, the organisation continues to explore opportunities within the circular textile economy, where discarded materials are repurposed into new products. This not only creates income streams but also encourages innovation and sustainability. “Independence grows when people have access to skills and opportunity. When women can contribute economically, it strengthens their sense of self-worth and their role within the community,” said Ms Solomon.
As the country reflects on human rights, Ms Solomon believes community-based initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gap between policy and lived experience.
“Human rights begin when we choose to notice, respect, and take action,” she said.
Senior artisan Jane Manda said she has been with H18 for the past decade after noticing women walking home in Joe Slovo Park carrying their crochet mats.
Curious, she asked where they were coming from, and women in her community introduced her to H18.
She said that although she only knew the basics of crochet at the time, the women taught her more, and she was taken under the wing of Ms Solomon.
It was there that she learned about business and how to become self-employed.
She said that the organisation has also taught her the importance of love and unity among the women she has encountered during her journey with H18.
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