Crafting Independence: The Sewing Workshop Program at Global Apparel

"La Escuelita" - The Sewing Workshop Program

At Global Apparel, our belief in the power and potential of our community motivates us to act in concrete and meaningful ways. For this reason, we have established a small workshop dedicated to teaching women who are heads of households the art of sewing. Our goal is clear: to create job opportunities that empower these women, allowing them not only to acquire valuable skills but also to foster their economic independence. We are committed to the development and progress of our community, and through initiatives like this, we aim to build a brighter future for everyone.

The Sewing Workshop Program, fondly known as "La Escuelita," is more than just a training center; it is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. By equipping women with sewing skills, we help them achieve financial stability and independence. The program not only teaches technical skills but also fosters a sense of community and support among participants. Women who complete the program find opportunities in various companies, contributing to the development of the garment industry and, in turn, enhancing their own lives and the lives of their families.

Sonya Rivas Ascue, the Program Director, emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She states, "Planning for diversity and overcoming adversity is essential to fostering a business culture. Ensuring that all employees have equal opportunities is crucial. As leaders, we must not create differences among them but recognize their cultures and genders to foster greater mutual understanding and respect."

At "La Escuelita," inclusion is a fundamental aspect, where we train operators to be conscious of producing to meet objectives, goals, and customer satisfaction, ultimately achieving higher revenue for the well-being of every employee in the company. Everyone must be heard.

The Sewing Workshop Program uses a variety of pedagogical methods to ensure that each participant receives the best possible training. Our approach includes hands-on learning, mentoring, and peer support. Women learn by doing, receiving guidance from experienced instructors and support from their peers. To address the individual needs of our students, we offer flexible scheduling and personalized instruction. This allows each woman to progress at her own pace and according to her unique circumstances. We also provide additional support services, such as childcare and transportation assistance, to ensure that all women can participate fully in the program.

We draw inspiration from various educational models that have proven successful in similar contexts. Programs like "La Casa de Panchita" in Peru and "The Sewing Machine Project" in the United States serve as benchmarks for our approach. These programs have demonstrated that providing practical skills training, along with emotional and social support, can significantly improve the lives of low-income women with limited educational backgrounds. By incorporating best practices from these models, we aim to create a supportive and effective learning environment at "La Escuelita."

In conclusion, "La Escuelita" embodies the spirit of Global Apparel's commitment to social responsibility. By investing in the education and empowerment of women, we are helping to build a stronger, more resilient community. We are proud of the progress made and look forward to continuing our mission of making a positive impact through sustainable garment manufacturing. Our approach to diversity, inclusion, and personalized education ensures that every woman has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the betterment of her family and community.