TANDO NKUNGWANA
A new sewing school, spearheaded by Intando Development Projects NPO, is set to launch in Gonubie on February 10 at the Lathitha Development Centre.
Designed to equip participants with professional sewing skills, the six-month accredited course aims to empower individuals with the tools needed to achieve financial independence, foster entrepreneurship, and create job opportunities.
Intando Development Projects NPO founder Mvelisi Fumba said starting the sewing school was inspired by a generous donation of sewing machines from a donor who would prefer to remain anonymous.
Additionally, through hands-on training and sustainable professional integration, the aim is to impart this skill in hopes that it will give people an improved skillset and ultimately, financial independence.
The organisation focuses on teaching people to sew because it is a valuable tool for job creation that empowers individuals with a practical, in-demand skill that can lead to both formal and informal job opportunities.
Sewing provides a pathway to entrepreneurship, enabling individuals to start their own businesses producing clothing, accessories, or home decor items.
This is especially significant in communities with limited job opportunities, as sewing requires minimal startup costs and can be done from home.
Additionally, the textile and garment industries often face a shortage of skilled workers, and sewing skills can help bridge this gap, creating employment in factories or workshops.
It also promotes self-reliance, as individuals can mend or create clothing, reducing expenses. Furthermore, learning to sew contributes to sustainable practices by encouraging the repair and reuse of garments, aligning with global efforts to reduce waste. Ultimately, sewing is a skill that fosters creativity, independence, and economic empowerment.
Fumba said: “This course is accredited by FP&M Seta and will be highly beneficial to the people who choose to take part in it.”
Led and administered by Lilitha Development Centre’s Jinette Sunduza, this sewing school is a means to bring community development to Gonubie.
Sunduza said: “We want to empower members of the community with a skill they can learn and then use to start their own businesses.”
Once the course ends in July, participants will receive certificates, indicating their ability to sew professionally.
Intando Development Projects NPO is a nonprofit organisation that works tirelessly to do meaningful community outreach work not only in East London, but across the country.
Founded in Pietermaritzburg in 2023, this NPO focuses on eradicating matters such as substance abuse, HIV/Aids and supporting communities that are destitute.
The registration fee is R500, and the course will cost members a fee of R400 a month, over six months.
Fumba said this money will go towards buying material that will be used by students throughout the duration of the course.
Classes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am until 3pm, and should members not be able to attend classes in the mornings, they can alternatively attend evening classes from 5pm until 7pm.
For more information about the classes please contact Jinette on: 063-729-9894.
