Our Sewcase program continues to grow through meaningful connections in communities across Canada, supporting Indigenous youth sewing in school. Most recently, Sewcase Program Coordinator Jenny Ambrose spent a week in the northern community of St. Theresa Point, working alongside teacher and changemaker Gwen Harper to support a thriving and inspiring sewing program.
A Classroom Full of Energy and Inspiration
From the moment you step into Gwen’s classroom, it’s clear it is more than just a sewing space—it’s a hub of creativity, culture, and connection. Music is always playing, laughter fills the room, and Gwen’s energy is contagious—often breaking into dance as students work on their projects. Her program brings together students and staff, creating a welcoming environment where learning new skills is woven together with cultural expression and community building.
Preparing for the First-Ever Fashion Show
During the week, Jenny and Gwen worked side by side to support students as they prepare for a major milestone: the community’s first-ever fashion show, taking place on May 1. Excitement is building as students develop their project plans and work toward showcasing their designs for a range of prizes. Together, they created new learning resources, including drafting ribbon shirt templates in multiple sizes, tracing garment patterns, and producing samples to support ongoing instruction and inspiration.
In just one week, Gwen, her two Education Assistants, and Jenny produced four ribbon shirts, three dresses, three pairs of leggings, two hoodies, two shrugs, and most of a prom dress—with many more student projects still in progress. Beyond the finished pieces, students and staff gained hands-on experience with a wide range of techniques, including reading commercial patterns, sewing buttonholes, using a quilting foot, gathering fabric, working with shirring elastic, and constructing garments as well as learning how to use their brand new Janome sergers.
The Heart of Sewcase
This visit highlights the heart of the Sewcase program: providing tools, mentorship, and support while uplifting the incredible work already happening within communities. In St. Theresa Point, that work is being led by Gwen Harper, whose passion and dedication are creating lasting opportunities for students to learn, create, and celebrate their achievements.
It is clear how sewing programs in remote communities contribute to positive mental health and well-being among students. Creating safe, creative spaces where youth can gather, explore, and express themselves has an impact that reaches far beyond the classroom. Soaring Circle is proud to support educators like Gwen, who dedicate countless hours to building programs that open doors and create meaningful opportunities for their students.
Looking Ahead to the Fashion Show
As the community prepares for its first fashion show, there is a strong sense of pride and anticipation. With every stitch, students are not only creating garments—they are building confidence, skills, and a shared sense of accomplishment that will extend far beyond the runway.
This visit was made possible through partnership with St. Theresa Point School, Strini Reddy, and the Winnipeg Rotary Club. If your organization is interested in supporting hands-on learning experiences for Indigenous community schools, please reach out to info@soaringcircle.ca or consider making a donation to the Sewcase program.
