TEACHING SEWING AT SCHOOL IN UGANDA

Hi everyone

As some of you may already know I have been selected as a Volunteer sewing teacher to go to Uganda for just over 2 weeks on 21 October 2013. The organisation who has accepted me are called ‘SewAID’ which is a NGO company based in Australia. I’m really excited about this and to pass on my skills is what I’ve always wanted to do.

I have now been retired for over 6 years and as far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to do something that would make a difference to the lives of others less fortunate that me.   Helping people feels very natural for me to do, as it makes my life meaningful and enriched, yet I feel I still need to do something more. The time has come for me to step away from my comfort zone and follow this strong desire and passion I have. What’s tipped the scales is - I was diagnosed with cancer last October and after having an operation and treatment I’m now in remission and feel well enough to take on this wonderful challenge.

A little about SewAID – it’s a programme which offers selected women in very poor countries the opportunity to learn them how to sew but also to provide them with the machines, equipment & skills they need to start a small home business in sewing.   Women have been helped to escape shocking poverty by giving them skills and equipment where they can make a better life for themselves and their family. This programme is to set up a sewing school at the Kutuuso School & Community Centre which is situated in an isolated area outside Kampala. I will be one of 6 other teachers – the days will be full on 8 hours and teaching in extremely hot conditions.

SewAID rely heavily on Volunteer teachers who donate their time and expertise as well as them funding their own travel and associated costs to each programme. In order to Volunteer, I need to raise approx £1,500 – I will be using my personal savings to fund my airfare, but I’m short of funds for my accommodation, insurance and associated costs. I have decided to ‘fundraise’ to try and generate the shortfall of funds that I need. This is the point where I call on all my friends, family and anyone else who is able to help me to bridge this financial gap.  If you feel this is something you could support me in and your able to help, it would be appreciated. You would be helping me to help other women in less fortunate circumstances than ourselves. Thank you very much Patricia. 

(Once I return home I will update everyone on how successful the teaching has been).