We exist to make a tangible difference in the lives of children in Western Zambia. Women in Zambia & South Africa lovingly craft beautiful items by hand. Every purchase supports their livelihoods, and all profits are reinvested into providing holistic care for children in need in Western Zambia.
How it Started
Hope Art started in 2009 with one word: "ART." Our founder, Marinette Van Coller, was living in Mongu, Western Zambia, when she saw the need to help children in need. She gathered a group of local women—many facing tough situations themselves—and together, they began creating handmade jewelry using paper beads. Our unique craft turns simple materials into beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.
Over time, we grew to include bags and sock animals. In 2016, we opened a second location in South Africa. Today, many of our artisans are the main earners in their families.
To date, Hope Art has been able to invest over R5.6 million / $360,000 into Zambia Project providing clean drinking water, food, shelter, education, and healthcare to children in the Western Province of Zambia. Click here to find out more about Zambia Project.
Meet the Team
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Marinette Van Coller
Hope Art Founding Leader
“I have been inspired by the Hope Art ladies since founding Hope Art in 2009. Despite facing many obstacles in their own lives, they remain dedicated to helping children in need. The ladies lovingly handcraft each Hope Art product for individuals, churches, and organizations to purchase, allowing everyone to be a part of Hope Art’s story. Your support means so much to our team. Together, we are making a significant difference. Thank you for choosing Hope Art!”
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Petri Kleyn
Hope Art Team Leader
“Hope Art has impacted my life tremendously. Getting to work with an incredible group of ladies, learning from them every day. Few people nowadays have the opportunity to learn from multiple women who are older than them and has life experience. There is something incredibly special in knowing that everything we do makes a difference in the lives of children in need. Hope Art has brought a lot of purpose into my life!”
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Rosemary Lubonga
Mongu Team Leader
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Zané Oosthuizen
Protea Park Team Leader
“Through Hope Art I have actually realized that I am quite gifted with administration. I love that it is not about me. Knowing that we are adding and contributing to the future of children that might not have had the future they will have now.”
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Abigail Minnies
Sales & Marketing Coordinator
“I love everything Hope Art represents! Since I was a teenager I have been moved by Hope Art and the impact it makes in the lives of women and children. The concept of using paper to make the most stunning jewelry pieces is so fascinating to me. When I wear Hope Art, I feel a sense of purpose. In many ways being part of the Hope Art Team feels like a dream come true. I have always dreamt of being part of something that makes a significant impact in the lives of others.”
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Siphesihle Khumalo
Full-time Volunteer
“I decided to become a full-time Hope Art volunteer because I was looking for a way to give back to the people at my church and make a difference in people’s lives with the gifts that God has given me. I love that I can make a difference in the lives of women and children in Zambia so that they will able to live better.”
Meet the Ladies
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Sombo Chilefwe
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Carol Kahalu
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Irene Kawele
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Chilombo Chinga
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Doreen Shita
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Felicity Diedericks
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Hazel Prince
