Beginners Sewing Testimonials Beyond 2020 – Mill Reef Fund (Sponsored Course)

Rashid Walker

My name is Rashid Walker, a local singer and songwriter who works in the hospitality and entertainment industry in Antigua. In August 2020, I received a flyer from a friend about the GARD Center’s training course in Beginners Sewing. Initially, I was not sure if it was something I wanted to do but since I was laid off from work since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I said to myself I might as well give it a try. This was a great decision because it opened the realm of possibilities, I didn’t know existed for me. Throughout the course, I learnt how to make masks, bags, pillowcases, curtains, surgical gowns among other items. As a result, I was able to sell most of the items I made.  Through this training course, I have become more self-sufficient and sustainable. I want to thank the Mil Reef Fund for sponsoring such a local initiative and I hope to participate in more advanced courses in the future.

Beginners Sewing Testimonials Beyond 2020 – Mill Reef Fund (Sponsored Course)

Hyacinth Joseph

My journey began in 2020 when I enrolled in a Beginners Level Sewing course at GARD Center. The curriculum was very informative but also hands-on. While there, I learnt all the parts of the sewing machine, their functions and how best to care for the machine, but most importantly I learnt how to make pillows, pillowcases, cushions, surgical gowns, curtains, shopping bags and face masks. I was able to sell and export face masks to my friends and family in Dominica during the COVID-19 pandemic, while I was still attending classes. This course was made possible through the Mill Reef Fund and I am very happy I received a scholarship opportunity to enroll in such a hands-on course.  

Immediately after, I enrolled in the Intermediate level sewing course which helped me to take things up a notch. I learned how to utilize various sewing techniques, and properly take measurements for different kinds of clothing, such as dresses, skirts, and blouses. This has really helped me with my prospective customers. As a creative entrepreneur, I am now able to use my knowledge and skills to create fashionable clothing and accessories for my family, customers, and myself.