Ona’s Dream of Teaching Girls to Sew

My name is Ona Carter, I am a self-taught dressmaker and couturière. I have been sewing clothing and home goods in Jamaica for over 40 years. It’s a craft that has brought me great joy and fulfillment. For decades, I’ve been teaching young women in my community the art of sewing, passing down these invaluable skills to the next generation.

However, despite my decades of experience and passion for this work, I’ve always faced significant challenges in growing my business. I currently only have access to one aging sewing machine, and I’ve never had the resources to establish a proper studio or workshop space. My current workspace is cramped and poorly lit, making it difficult to take on large projects or accommodate multiple students at once.

This lack of proper equipment and workspace has greatly limited my ability to expand my sewing business and reach more aspiring seamstresses in and around my community. I know there are so many young Jamaican women who are eager to learn this craft, but I’ve had to turn many of them away due to my limited resources.

That’s why I’ve decided to launch this crowdfunding campaign. I’m seeking to raise $22,300 USD to establish a dedicated sewing studio that will allow me to take this business to the next level. With this funding, I’ll be able to purchase several high-quality sewing machines, as well as the necessary tools, fabrics, and other supplies. Most importantly, I’ll be able to lease a spacious, well-equipped studio space that can comfortably accommodate both my own work and larger sewing classes.

By supporting this campaign, you’ll be investing not just in my business, but in the future of sewing and textile arts in Jamaica. With a proper studio space and the right equipment, I’ll be able to take on more clients, teach more students, and showcase the incredible talent and craftsmanship that Jamaican seamstresses have to offer.

Your donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference in helping me expand my sewing business and empower the next generation of Jamaican sewers and designers. Together, we can help preserve this important cultural tradition and create new economic opportunities for women in my community and country.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Ona