(RED) Connections

By Tamsin Smith

There was a lot of excitement at (RED) about the recent Everest Team INSPI(RED) climb. So we linked Jeff Dossett up with Patrick Robinson, lead designer at Gap. Patrick then reached out to the Hillcrest AIDS center www.littletraveller.org.za, which has produced beautiful items for the (GAP)RED collection. The women of Hillcrest embraced the challenge of making a banner for the Everest expedition. In fact, they made two!

The first flag was made by the Hillcrest AIDS centre's quilting group under the guidance of quilting volunteer teacher Colleen Roberts. It represents Africa and the (RED) relationship with Africa, as well as an artistic view of the Everest profile and the silhouette of the climbers. The flag was put together by Gladys Mzimela and Thobile Ndlovu who are bead workers/quilters at the centre.





The second flag was created by Paula Thomson, Nto Cebukhulu, Zonke Pungula, Nelly Zikale, Eugenia Chamane, Gladys Mzimela and Thobile Ndlovu. It represents the physical map and the history of the first equipment/ pioneers who climbed Everest. It also represents Africa and those living with HIV and AIDS, and the positive difference that (RED) partners and shoppers have made. The flag image also incorporates a Little Traveler (beaded doll made at the centre) which is their symbol of triumph over the effects of being HIV positive.





The women of Hillcrest have firsthand experience of how (GAP)RED has helped. The AIDS ribbon pin and other orders that Gap has placed with their organization make a positive and lasting contribution to the lives of our craft workers. Over 800 crafters earned a salary for three months through the pin order alone.
In a note to the climbers, Paula Thompson said: "Should our Travelers reach the summit it will be an inspiration to all the crafters and to all the people that buy Little Travelers around the world."

An inspiration indeed!
Tamsin