My name is Liezel van Schalkwyk and I am an engineer by trade, a craftsman by heart, a mum and wife to an amazing family and part of a growing community.

Five years ago the idea sparked for Kremetart & Aspatat. I was very frustrated with the limited choices for laptop bags. These bags were either mass produced, lacking the something special that made it mine, or it didn't fit into my lifestyle, going from braai to boardroom.

It started with designing and manufacturing bespoke handbags and laptop bags for other woman in the same position. Functional, elegant and timeless bags that was designed for the unique individual. And this idea of celebrating each person's unique design grew to other consumables. .

Expanding to craft workshops celebrating and sharing what makes every person unique was the next step of Kremetart & Aspatat's growth. Each person at the workshops are a unique person, their experiences, dreams and ideas fill a space that no-one else can fill. Sharing craft skills with other amazing people builds a community of thought and this community will invest these skills back into their families.

I want my children to learn that a community is more than the people you know - it is also about responsibility and caring for those that you don't know... yet! For Kremetart & Aspatat social responsibility is about keeping skills alive and thriving. So many times things we did as a family a decade ago is being replaced by technology. We are losing time with each other, and although it is easier to walk into a shop to buy a bar of soap, the experience of making that bar of soap with your friends and family makes it so much more valuable.

Putting your stamp on your accessories makes it one of a kind. I want people to celebrate their individualism. You are unique, you fill a space that will be empty without you in it, why should you settle for mass production?

I want every person to know how special they are being themselves. This is missing from society lately - it is more as though through mass production, the idea formed that the community should also conform to mass appeal. Going back to basics will create those bonds again and workshops will give you the opportunity to mean like minded people you can connect with and expand your community!