Women of Hope graduate in style

Fourteen dressmakers graduated from Owesifaze Onethemba’s (Women of Hope) dressmaking course last Wednesday with the skills to both clothe themselves and feed their families.

The skills transfer and mentorship programme is an initiative by Grace Aid, which is a non-profit and public benefit organisation by Grace Family Church.

After receiving their certificates, each woman modelled the beautiful outfits they made for their graduation.

Shaka’s Head graduate Nelly Mthembu said the programme had helped them gain independence as entrepreneurs. 

“I run out of words to express how grateful we are. Since the first day, we have gained a lot of knowledge, and even spiritually we are uplifted. This is a dream come true,” said Mthembu.

Mayville resident, Nondumiso Maphalala, who did the course last year, had been promoted to teaching the new ladies.

“When I came here I had never used a sewing machine before, but through dedication, I learnt. Now I have turned my kid’s bedroom into a mini-factory, where I make clothes. Now I can put food on the table,” said Maphalala.

One of the founders, Collen Blew, said they run 2 courses a year, one for beginners and an advanced course. 

“We are in the process of developing the business side of our initiative, where we take on sewing work for various businesses, providing work for our graduates. We are currently making beautiful aprons for the new Tops store at Ballito Lifestyle.”

They believe in a holistic approach to the training, providing not only practical skills but also encouraging and helping them to develop a positive confident self-image, she said.

She said they hoped to build a training centre on the property of Grace Church Ballito and they would appreciate the donation of a container as well as industrial sewing machines.

Contact Colleen Blew at 082 773 2117 or Kerry Pollock 083 635 9122.