Businesses invited to support new campaign to inspire next generation of fashion designers

A Black Country fashion designer is calling on local businesses, organisations and individuals to help inspire the next generation of creative talent by supporting the launch of Young Makers' Sewing Club (YMSC).

Following an inspiring visit to Grace Mary Primary School during Careers Week, fashion designer and marketing professional Natelle is seeking sponsorship to fund sewing equipment and materials that will enable local pupils to learn valuable creative and practical skills.

During the visit, Natelle shared her journey from teaching herself to sew, to building her own fashion business.

Speaking to Year 6 pupils about creativity, entrepreneurship and pursuing a passion, she was overwhelmed by the children's enthusiasm.

Natelle said: "The question that stayed with me wasn't about my business. It was when several pupils asked, 'Can you teach us how to sew?’

"They weren't simply asking how to make clothes. They were asking for the confidence to create, to solve problems, to learn new skills and to bring their own ideas to life."

The visit reinforced a vision that has been developing since late 2025. Young Makers' Sewing Club (YMSC), an initiative that has been designed to introduce young people to sewing, creativity, design thinking and practical making skills, while encouraging confidence, resilience and self-expression.

The initiative also aims to help preserve sewing as an increasingly overlooked life skill at a time when fast fashion and throwaway culture dominate.

By teaching children how to make, repair and create their own clothing and textile projects, YMSC hopes to inspire a new generation of makers with an appreciation for craftsmanship, sustainability and creativity.

Grace Mary Primary School has expressed its support for the initiative and hopes to host weekly Friday afternoon sessions for up to 10 pupils from the start of the new academic year in September 2026.

To make the first cohort a reality, YMSC is aiming to raise £3,000 to purchase the essential equipment and resources needed to launch the club. This funding will establish the first of what is hoped will become many Young Makers' Sewing Clubs in schools across the region—and ultimately across the UK.

Funds will be used to purchase sewing machines, fabrics and materials, threads, scissors, measuring tools and sewing essentials, learning resources alongside classroom project supplies.

Natelle brings together a unique combination of creative and commercial experience. Alongside running a fashion business, she has a background in website development and has worked in marketing since graduating from university.

Natelle said: "I taught myself to sew because I wanted to create the clothes I imagined.

"That single skill has completely changed my life and enabled me to build my own business.

"Now I want to give that opportunity to the next generation. Sewing teaches far more than how to use a machine. It develops patience, confidence, creativity, problem-solving and resilience.

These are skills that benefit young people throughout their lives, whatever career they choose.

"My ambition is to start with one school, prove the impact the programme can have, and then take Young Makers' Sewing Club into schools across the country. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us take one step closer to that vision."

The project has already attracted interest from Sandwell Council and other public sector organisations.

While discussions have been temporarily paused due to budget pressures, Natelle remains committed to launching the programme by working alongside local businesses and the wider community.

YMSC is now inviting businesses to support the initiative through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes, sponsorship or charitable donations. Individuals who would like to contribute are also encouraged to support the fundraising campaign via GoFundMe.