Stitching new opportunities for poor communities

IN the 21st century, sewing is a skill many people take for granted. It is easier in this day and age to throw away a garment rather than attempt to mend pants or dresses yourself.

However, not only is this skill lacking in many disadvantaged communities, but ironically could also mean the difference between a steady income and a starving family, says Durban North resident, Debbie Becker.

This is where the passionate seamstress aspired to make a difference.

For the last year, she has been able to teach basic sewing skills to dozens of men and women from poverty-stricken areas through the Grace Family Church’s Paradigm Shift project.

“We target people from underprivileged communities where the average person has not completed matric. The majority of these are women who have not had a single day’s worth of official work experience. It has therefore been impossible for them to find jobs,” she said.

Throughout the ten-week programme the beneficiaries are taught to sew by hand as well as with a sewing machine.

Once they have completed the course, they will be able to make simple repairs and alterations as well as linen, clothes and plush toys which can be sold for a profit. In addition to these skills, the staff at the church also provide them with business and life skills.

“This upliftment project has been a dream of mine since 2012. I have always been passionate about sewing, quilting and teaching and this was the perfect way for me to give back to the community,” she added.

Her ultimate goal, she said, was to see these men and women become self-employed and empowered to earn their own living.

“I have seen some women who have come in with almost no hope go from being completely unproductive and demotivated to earning R20 and then R80 a week,” she said.

To celebrate their graduation, these newly-skilled individuals are presented with donated sewing machines to help them along their entrepreneurial journey.

Classes for this year have begun with 14 enrolled students. Contact Jill de Villiers via e-mail on jill@grace.za.org.