Monkeybiz, Cape Town

Located next door to the Bo-Kaap Museum, the Monkeybiz boutique sells unique beaded dolls and animals of all sizes. However, this is not simply a quaint toy store. It's a non-profit organization that gives work to over 320 local beaders. These local women are trained in beadwork, given materials, and then can work from home. Their work enables them to provide for their families, and working from home allows the artists to save on transport costs and childcare.

Traditional beaded necklaces and artworks are thought to impart spiritual energy. Each beaded doll is truly unique. Each artist chooses her pattern and colors. The resulting dolls and animals are genuinely treasured works of art. Monkeybiz has more than just dolls and animals. They also sell beaded fridge magnets, Christmas tree decorations, bridal cake toppers, and life-size animals.

Monkeybiz aims to be environmentally friendly, too. They use discarded cutoffs from local clothing manufacturers to create filling for the dolls and animals.