By Abosede Abiodun | Admin Assistant trainee
On a bright morning in August 2024, GCAF's studio at Ojodu Berger came alive with chatter and laughter as ten enthusiastic girls gathered for a two-day summer skills-building session. Armed with yarns, hooks, and curiosity, they embarked on a journey to learn the art of crocheting and knitting under the expert guidance of Mr. Ayomide, the facilitator for the day.
The training began with a distinction between crocheting and knitting, introducing the girls to tools like hooks and needles. For many, it was their first encounter with the craft, and their excitement was palpable. Girls like Ikpeme Emmanuel and Mustapha Ikimat initially struggled with basic techniques like creating chain stitches and tying knots. Still, Mr Ayomide's patience and encouragement soon turned their frustration into determination.
The girls learned foundational stitches on the first day, such as chain, single crocheting, and double crochet. The facilitator's demonstrations were meticulous, and his ability to address individual challenges ensured no one was left behind. For Emmanuella, tying a simple knot seemed like an impossible task at first, but with repeated practice and personalized guidance, she eventually succeeded, inspiring everyone with her persistence.
The second day built on these basics, diving into advanced techniques like creating caps and managing yarn tension. Mr. Ayomide introduced the concept of precision, emphasizing the importance of counting stitches and maintaining consistency. Nafisat Siyaka, a quick learner, impressed everyone by completing a neatly knitted cap—a feat that highlighted her natural aptitude and the effectiveness of the training.
Throughout the sessions, the girls grew not just in skill but also in confidence. They discovered the therapeutic rhythm of knitting, where mistakes were opportunities to learn, and each completed stitch was a step toward mastering a new skill. The sessions also fostered a sense of sisterhood among the participants as they cheered each other on and celebrated small victories together.
By the end of the training, the girls had achieved remarkable progress. They gained a solid foundation in crocheting and knitting techniques, learned how to manage materials effectively, and even explored creative applications like designing caps. Beyond the technical skills, the sessions instilled a sense of accomplishment and a belief in their ability to create something beautiful with their hands.
GCAF's summer knitting program demonstrated the transformative power of creativity and mentorship. With the right tools, guidance, and a supportive environment, these girls honed a new skill and discovered their potential to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. GCAF's mission is to empower girls to grow, connect, and thrive through creative expression.
As we look forward to future sessions, we remain committed to providing more opportunities for these young talents to shine. With continued support from facilitators like Mr. Ayomide and the community, the possibilities are boundless. Together, we are knitting a brighter future, one stitch at a time.
By Janet Ibitayo | Program Assistant
By Sussan Okocha | Project Leader
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