News
Differences in abilities within the Cosmetics Workshop by Whanita Ellis
The article celebrates the different abilities and personalities that make the Camphill Cosmetics Workshop unique. It shows how teamwork, creativity, organisation and a good sense of humour come together to create a productive and welcoming workplace.
A cosmetics workshop is about making beautiful products, staying organised, and working as a team. Ours does all of that, with the addition of a healthy amount of love. The differences in abilities within our workshop are what keep things interesting, productive, and often fun.
Take Glynnis, for example. While everyone else is focused on creams, oils, and formulations, Glynnis is planning to turn part of the workshop into a herb garden. Her vision is not only skincare, but also calming teas to help people sleep better, remedies for colds and flu. At any moment she might turn a production meeting into a business proposal for “Tea by Glynnis.”
Geoffrey’s special ability is communication, reminding us how happy he is to share his day with us. Every day comes with a full update, whether we are filling bottles or labelling products. While making products, we get a motivational speech and a daily news update.
Kobus has perfected the role of workshop ambassador. Any visitor walking through the door is welcomed like an honoured guest. Before they can ask a question, Kobus has already greeted them, made them feel at home, and probably offered them a tour. If friendliness could be bottled, we would be selling it.
Edward has the rare ability to calmly strip rosemary while telling his entire life story. What starts as preparing herbs for a product often turns into a personal documentary. By the time the rosemary is finished, everyone knows where Edward grew up, what happened in 1987, and how to be a good listener.
Alex brings a peaceful focus to the workshop. While everyone is moving around, Alex calmly concentrates on the task at hand and reminds us, “Love is what we asked for today.” It is hard to stress over production schedules when you are being given philosophical wisdom next to the mixing table.
Then there is Anke, who makes sure tomorrow’s order is packed and ready, no matter what chaos is happening around her. She keeps the workshop moving. And right beside her is Heidi, offering support with a sweet laugh that can turn even a stressful order rush into a team performance. Together, they prove that efficiency and laughter can work side by side.
Our cosmetics workshop runs on many different abilities: herbal dreams, storytelling, hospitality, focus, organisation, and plenty of laughter. These differences are not distractions; they are what make our team special. And somehow, between rosemary, tea ideas, and funny laughs, we still get the orders out on time.