Joy and excitement filled the Oxford Schul on December 12 during the Union for Jewish Women (UJW) Johannesburg sewing graduation.

This year’s sewing theme was Afrocentric Wedding Vibes. The sewing empowerment school is an initiative which was launched in 2010, to help address unemployment and poverty through practical, income-generating skills.

The sewing empowerment manager, Ariane Heneck, explained “For over 14 years, the Sewing Empowerment School has provided a rigorous four-month intensive training programme. It has been equipping unemployed people with the foundational techniques needed to enter the world of sewing, and small-business entrepreneurship.”

Read more: Union of Jewish Women, Johannesburg acknowledge housekeepers at special appreciation event

Heneck added that students learn everything from sewing straight and unpicking garments, to reading and interpreting patterns, to mastering fabric cutting and garment construction.

Five students presented the results of their commitment, hard work, and creativity. Their end-of-course showcase featured the theme, a celebration of African flair, colour, and cultural elegance.

Each outfit was designed and constructed by the students themselves, highlighting the skills they have gained and their readiness to take on real-world opportunities in sewing and fashion.

“This programme is about more than sewing, it’s about restoring dignity, building confidence, and empowering people to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families,” said the project manager, Vanessa Weltman.

UJW remains committed to uplifting and empowering people through education, skills development, and community support.

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