Sewing new futures with Grace Church

WHEN Grace Family Church started its first Grace Holistic Sewing Course, they did not anticipate the effect it would have on local entrepreneurs and residents from the surrounding community. The pilot program ran weekly over a four month period at the Grace Riverside campus.

For many it offered a way to use skills to uplift themselves, for others a way to make ends meet and for others, realising a dream. This is certainly true for Sweleni Nameyi, who has always wanted to become a fashion designer. Nameyi is currently an intern with Durban North designer, Hanrie Leus.

“I’ve always wanted to be a designer. I remember my friends asking me to design their dresses for their Grade 7 farewell and I used to hand sew additions to dresses and skirts. My mom and grandmother also used to sew and I was always fascinated by the art and I would watch them for hours. My mom eventually bought a sewing machine and I was always interested in using it, except I never got the opportunity to learn how to use it.

“This course has opened so many doors and paths I didn’t think possible. It wasn’t just about sewing, it explained labour rights as well as ideas on how to generate income. It’s motivated me and made me see anything is possible and it’s helping me further my dreams,” she said.

Hanrie Leus, who is well known in fashion circles said, though she got involved with the sewing course at a latter stage, said she has always wanted to give back.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do but I just never had the chance. When I saw what this course was doing for women, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, I had to get on board. I firmly believe in skills development, especially as this is life changing for so many people, including Sweleni,” she said.

Dimitra Nicolau, from Grace highlighted the importance of hearing these ladies stories, to understand their challenges and support them in reaching for their dreams.

“Graduates were awarded a certificate of completion and selected ladies received sewing machines. Many have already started their own businesses or secured part-time employment. I think many women underestimated how much we wanted to hear their stories.

“They thought it was just learning how to sew, but the course was about listening to what their hearts wanted. The second course stars on 31 August, with a larger group of participants and volunteers. Donations of sewing machines, fabrics or your time as a trainer or assistant is welcome. Businesses who are interested in taking on one of our ladies for an internship or interview please email me on dimitra@grace.za.org,” she said.
Another Grace programme on offer at the moment is business training, taking place on 5 September, this is to equip micro-entrepeneurs (earn under R100 per day), with basic business skills. To register SMS: ABC and your name to 31647 or email kelly@grace.za.org