Joy from Africa to the World (JFA) has brought in a number of local crafters and artists to create and install festive decorations across the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

The JFA movement, in its fourth year, honours local skills, showcases African creativity and challenges conventional thinking.

One of the installation highlights is the handmade hot-air balloon, woven from cane by the Cape Town Society of the Blind. CEO, Veronica Pronk, said eight to 10 visually impaired staff members had worked on this special project.

The fashion division in the mall will also sport a new look thanks to the collective efforts of talented South African designers and illustrators. Textiles printed in unique patterns and designs have been combined with beading, papier mâché, lights and other crafts to create an unexpected and sophisticated look.

The 123-hectare mixed-use Waterfront neighbourhood – incorporating the oldest working harbour in the Southern hemisphere – nurtures over 400 start-ups, enterprise development projects and emerging small businesses that create income and employment. Many of the beneficiaries are from disadvantaged backgrounds, with limited education and income-generating skills.

JFA has, to date, supported 150 small businesses and crafters, and 15 graphic designers. In addition, 400 tonnes of decorations have been reused, recycled and repurposed.