In November, the Espero Association opened a couture workshop in Antony, south of Paris. The organization aims to offer a group of uniquely talented refugees their first professional experience in France. Major French brands have already offered fabric remnants, while others are considering collaborations to produce pieces 100% made in France.
In the Parisian suburb of Villejuif, a workshop run by the French NGO Renaissance trains unemployed people – including migrants – to create luxury fashion pieces from castoff clothes and linen. It’s a transformative experience as participants embark on a journey of acquiring professional integration skills in a sustainable, eco-friendly manner.
Going to school in Afghanistan was a dream for Foruzan Ghaffari. But in Germany, she is not only studying, but also learning the craft of fashion design. She says now her next aim is to send her child to school.
Two Nigerians have set up a fashion label in the Liguria region in Italy. Called "Happy Job," the label is an attempt to showcase African fashion in Italy.
An online crowdfunding initiative in the Italian cities of Prato and Florence funds tailoring courses for asylum seekers, aiming to foster social inclusion and improve their chances of finding a job.