CONCLUSION

In conclusion my experience and exposure to another country and other cultures has opened my mind, to explore further design concepts and ideas. It has brought me to a place of introspection, moving from a place called Katanga where only French and Swahili are the main languages, Democratic Republic of Congo to Cape Town, South Africa created a seismic shift in my understanding of people and places. The limited exposure and experience of my home country alone did not prepare me for my experience here. I had no English skills when I arrived. I spent my first year studying English before entering higher education. Though I had no experience of design but was inspired by a family friend who is a graphic designer. My design journey might have started with wanting to learn graphic design but has brought me to jewellery which I did not know I could study or have such a passion for as I do. Having immersed myself in this learning experience, I have found a creative outlet for my design passion. Jewellery has opened my eyes to the possibilities that is out there for design as art. Jewellery has changed my view of the world and myself. In my learning and practice the process has allowed me to develop a style of my own which speaks to my culture and idea of self. I believe that I will continue to learn and integrate the techniques and ideas which will open other avenues of design and manufacture for me.

Coming from the province of Katanga in the, a country rich in mineral resources I have been questioning the jewellery design movement of my region. We have traditional jewellery practices that speaks to the different tribes but is routed in the past. Most young city shop owners buy imported jewellery from Europe and Asia with no true Congolese aesthetic. I would like to establish a movement where tradition and modern jewellery design meets, to develop a truly Congolese design which in turn might develop the jewellery industry in the DRC.