Stitch Training and Entrepreneurship Capsule Course

The current cohort of 14 female students in the Salesians Stitch Ahead programme has completed basic stitch training for both hand and machine, as well as a business capsule course aimed at introducing them to the world of entrepreneurship. They are currently working on designing and planning their graduation outfits to be worn on May 24th.

Throughout the course, these students have been trained to make two different types of washable sanitary pads – hand-sewn and machine-sewn in three sizes, presented in a dignity pack of various designs. One creative student cleverly made use of an old pair of jeans to create her dignity pack. This approach is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as is the way they use newspapers to design and make patterns for outfits sparking their creativity.

Creating Safe Spaces for Mental and Physical Wellness

Unfortunately, one student has dropped out due to personal reasons. Another one is currently struggling with drug addiction and attends counselling and referral sessions. Safe spaces are required for some of the ladies to overcome the mental and physical challenges they face so that they can flourish. They have weekly sessions about to begin with the Occupational Therapists of the Wellness Centre around workplace functionality.

This is a collaborative project in partnership with Salesians Stitch Ahead, the Rotary Club of Amersfoort and the Rotary Club of Waterfront.