On 17th July 2025, a vibrant and hands-on vocational training session on fashion designing was organised at the Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre for adolescents enrolled under the Kolkata Slums Project. The focus of the training was on Block Printing and Tie & Dye — two time-honoured techniques that blend creativity, culture, and self-expression with practical skill development.

The session was thoughtfully designed to introduce the young participants to the basics of fabric design, helping them gain insight into colours, patterns, dyeing techniques, and layout composition. Through step-by-step guidance from the trainer, the adolescents not only observed the process but actively engaged in creating their own designs — giving them a strong sense of ownership and confidence in their creative abilities.

Block printing, with its intricate motifs and rhythmic stamping, helped the participants understand precision and planning, while the tie & dye segment encouraged spontaneity and exploration of colours. These techniques are not just creative outlets but also hold promise for sustainable livelihood opportunities in the future.

The training was conducted in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that encouraged learning through doing. It also aimed at fostering group participation, patience, and attention to detail — qualities essential not just in fashion design but in life.

As the trainees proudly displayed their self-made designs, the joy and satisfaction on their faces spoke volumes. This session was more than a vocational class; it was a step toward empowerment, possibility, and self-belief.

“Weaving skills, dyeing dreams — one design at a time.”

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