UNITED KINGDOM

All our sewing hubs in the UK look a little different. Our main focus is building community and forming friendship, especially across our cultural diversity. We are often seen using Google translate on your mobile phones to have conversation and dialogue together. Neda and Sazgar do a little more, they are paid staff, either working at our sewing sessions, offering advice and guidance or making our Dorcas dresses.

Neda is from Iran. Neda works at our Friday afternoon sewing sessions “attending helps to wrap up the week, reflect, and connect with others, giving fresh perspective and motivation. The most useful thing I have learned is effective communication, as it helps with building relationships, solving problems, and working together. Being part of a sewing hub is valuable for skill development, sharing ideas, and having access to helpful tools and support. If I was unable to attend I would miss the community, creative work, learning opportunities and the joy of giving back.”

Sazgar is from Iraq. “I really like sewing. My job makes me happy. I have really valued being able to do my best, it has been hard but worthwhile. I have learnt not to give up! Maria has been so good to us. If I was unable to come and sew my daughter would be upset as I would not be able to give her what she needs or help her be happy.”