We are midway through November and just a month and a half to go until we bring the chapter of 2023 to a close. Our second batch of students have grown a lot over the last two and a half months and with it so has our team as we’ve navigated new challenges as well as opportunities. While our overarching mission remains constant, it’s the individuals who breathe life into the narrative, each contributing their unique touch to the tapestry that makes all the difference.
Ilma has succinctly captured the essence of our journey as the Project Runway section of our Empower program concludes, taking with it the valuable lessons in upcycling, fashion, and sustainability. These young minds have not only honed their language and skills but also cultivated attributes like teamwork, leadership, accountability, and creativity along the way.
Here are her thoughts:
The highlight of this week was undoubtedly the upcycled fashion show where students showcased their incredible talent and creativity by transforming discarded materials into beautiful and stylish clothes. The event not only celebrated sustainable fashion but also became a platform for personal growth and empowerment, as even the shyest students came out of their shells.
This fashion show was more than just a creative endeavor; it was an opportunity for these young minds to blossom. Many students who were typically reserved surprised us all as they confidently strutted down the runway, proudly displaying their upcycled designs. The event served as a powerful reminder that self-expression and confidence can take many forms, and fashion is undoubtedly one of them.
Language barriers were shattered as students who initially struggled with English found their voices, expressing their passion for the clothes they had created. It was heartwarming to see how a shared love for fashion bridged gaps and enabled them to communicate with enthusiasm and pride.
Behind the scenes, the Avinya Educators guided the stage managers of each class to work their magic. Their meticulous organization and leadership ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing the students to shine on stage. They exemplified teamwork, responsibility, and professionalism, providing an invaluable learning experience for all involved.
In the end, the upcycled fashion show was a super end-of-project showcase, where the hard work, dedication, and passion of the students paid off in a spectacular display of style and creativity. It served as a reminder that creativity knows no bounds and that everyone has the potential to shine when given the right opportunity and support.
This event wasn’t just about fashion; it was a celebration of personal growth and the incredible potential that lies within each and every student. The upcycled fashion show was a reminder that with determination and passion, we can create something beautiful out of the ordinary, and in doing so, we can empower and inspire ourselves and others.
– Ilma
Thank you, Ilma for the update on the AD front! Adding onto Ilma’s update I’d like to thank Mrs. Ruby Fernando, our esteemed guest, for gracing us with your presence at the upcycled fashion show of Project Runway. Your comments have uplifted the spirits of the students involved and they are looking to improve their work based on your feedback for the next project. It was an honor to have you witness their creativity and passion firsthand again!
The students have now moved on to the next project of the Empower Program; “Project Showcase”. True to its name this project will be a combination and showcase of all the projects they’ve completed so far. We firmly believe in the involvement of parents in the students’ lives and this will be an opportunity for the parents to see how their children have changed since joining the Empower Program.
Further exciting developments are on the horizon as we explore new updates to our curriculum. We are actively working towards enhancing the Empower Program and looking into any and all avenues that can be explored in order to provide our students with the best skills to enter the world, empowered and exhibiting their full potential. These potential changes will hopefully bring even more opportunities for growth to our program.
On a celebratory note, we are thrilled to announce our first batch of students will receive their long-awaited NVQ L1 certificates issued by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC). Along with the certificate they received for completing the Empower Program, this certificate is also a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the program. Congratulations Empower Batch 2023a!
Thank you for joining us on our journey through the Avinya Scoop this week! Until next week!
– Sinalie
