The heart of Umtha
Meet the remarkable women behind every piece
Our Story
Umtha, meaning “Ray of Light” in Xhosa was established in 1992 by Dave and Cheryl Milligan who we’re aware of the desperate unemployment situation in Africa and were determined to be a part of changing it. They were passionate about providing fair-wage job opportunities for previously disadvantaged South Africans and refugee-status foreigners.
What began as a small creative venture has grown into a well-established wholesale jewellery brand, supplying lodges, curio stores, destination shops and boutique retailers across South Africa and around the world. We have always believed in trading fairly and handcrafting beautifully.
The new owners – a mother and daughter team, Rose and Farron, are committed to improving the lifestyles of our team through increasing the potential of the Umtha brand.
Our Craftswomen
Behind every Umtha piece is our remarkable team of craftswomen – previously marginalised women from Xhosa and French-speaking refugee communities in Cape Town.
The jewellery making team have been part of Umtha for between 25 and 35 years – a rare legacy of skill and commitment. Their unwavering loyalty, exceptional attention to detail and tireless work are at the heard of our business, shaping each piece with care and ensuring the quality and integrity that Umtha is known for. Through skilled training and dedicated craftmanship, these women have been able to build dignified and sustainable livelihoods. When you stock Umtha jewellery, you are not just offering your customers something beautiful, you are supporting a community of women.
Nonceba
Nompucuko
Tabisa
Christine
Paula
Nana
Our Values and credentials
Umtha is built on fair trade principles — every decision we make, from the materials we source to the wages we pay, reflects our commitment to doing business with integrity and compassion.
We are proud supporters of disabled employment, sourcing our ostrich eggshell beads exclusively from the Association of Physically Disabled workshop in Oudtshoorn. These unique, ethically sourced beads are a distinctive feature of many of our pieces and carry a story of their own.
Umtha is a proud member of the Craft and Design Institute (CDI), holds an import/export licence for international trade, and operates as a registered South African business — giving our wholesale partners complete confidence in doing business with us.