Empowering Women Through Sewing Skills in London

In an innovative initiative to uplift women from low-income households, Kundakala, a social enterprise based in London, has successfully trained 150 women in sewing and tailoring skills. The organization currently supports 70 women across Islington, Camden, Hackney, and Lambeth, offering them the opportunity to gain valuable qualifications in this craft.

The Vision Behind Kundakala

Kundakala was established by Poornima Kirloskar-Saini with the aim of equipping women with skills that could help them save money, reduce debt, and open new avenues for income generation. “I thought it would be great to give them some skills so that they could look at saving money, reducing debt, and possibly looking at an avenue of income generation,” Poornima explained.

Addressing Cultural Context

Recognizing the cultural dynamics in some minority backgrounds, Poornima noted the necessity for women to balance traditional roles, often encompassing caregiving for children and elderly family members. She emphasized, “So I thought if I were to upskill them, it would be some kind of skill that they could do at home.” Tailoring was identified as an ideal skill set for this demographic.

Comprehensive Skill Development Programs

Kundakala offers diverse training programs, including a basic “make and mend” course and a more advanced “alterations and upcycling” class. “Our main thing was to help them save money and reduce debt,” Poornima commented, adding that the initiative has also fostered significant mental health benefits and social connectivity among participants.

Microbusiness Outcomes

Of those trained, 15 women have successfully established their own microbusinesses leveraging the skills acquired through Kundakala. These businesses range from creating handmade products for sale in local markets to providing alteration and repair services directly to clients in their workplaces.

Financial Comfort Through Skills

The sewers in the program, such as Ella, have found that their newfound skills alleviate financial stress. According to Poornima, the training supports women in navigating the challenges posed by pandemic-induced financial strain and the rising cost of living. She added, “Women from ethnic minority backgrounds normally like to wear ethnic clothes for festivals, and it’s really expensive to get those clothes and to alter them… they’ve saved hundreds of pounds.”

Personal Success Stories

Maggie Oparebea, who joined the program two years ago, has embraced her sewing journey, stating, “I can do make-up bags and I sell them. I can do repairs… I have money in my pocket.” This reflects the tangible impacts of Kundakala in enhancing her financial independence.

Social and Emotional Benefits

Beyond monetary advantages, Poornima remarked that gaining sewing skills uplifts the women’s self-esteem and confidence. “Just getting a skill improves their self-esteem, improves their confidence… they become role models for their kids, their sons and their daughters,” she stated, underscoring the program’s broader societal impact.

A Path Towards Empowerment

Poornima Kirloskar-Saini sees her mission at Kundakala as pivotal for female empowerment and education. The programs are designed not only to impart valuable skills but also to foster a supportive community, preparing women to take more control over their financial and personal lives.