It is estimated that Masiphumelele's unemployment level is around 70%. Many households are women-headed and families struggle to put food on the table - leading to high levels of poverty and hunger. Many residents here do not have access to quality education or a way to develop their skills and earn an income. Women often do not know what opportunities are available to them, and many rely on government grants. Those that do find work often become domestic workers for very little pay.

Masicorp has been working in this community since 1999. The organisation focuses on education and skills development as a route out of poverty. One of the programmes Masicorp is most proud of is the Sewing & Life Skills programme, offered to unemployed women from the Masiphumelele community. Not only are women taught basic computers, life skills, English and Sewing, the self-confidence and connection that are created through this programme, are just as valuable and important.