Meagan is an exceptional young woman who has come through the Lynedoch Youth Programme, hosted by our partner organization, the Sustainability Institute. She participated in the Stitch & Dream workshops where she was able to gain new skills in crocheting and sewing. This inspired her to start her own product range. Here is her story.
“Every young person has a desire to generate their own income, to be able to help where they can in these uncertain times. That is one of the reasons that I decided to start my own business. When I decided I want to start my own business I was overwhelmed with doubt. Who will buy the product and who will be interested? These were the kind of questions that popped into my head over and over again. So, I decided to wear one of the Alice bands that I made one day and I received so many compliments. That gave me courage and insight to proceed.
The Stitch & Dream project inspired me a lot. It taught me about profit and business and to do what I have a passion for. I gained so much knowledge and the opportunity was the absolute best. I started advertising on social media on my Facebook and WhatsApp statuses and got more interest than I expected. I was very excited and very proud especially. My first order was 2 and after that it just grew. I added the prices as well: Alice bands are R20 and the scrunchies are R20. I am incredibly grateful for the support I have been getting.
The profit that I make I use for more material to make the products but also for toiletries and ingredients that my mother can put on our bread for the week. I also spoil myself now and then. My main goal is to save to buy myself a laptop. Long term I would like for my Alice Bands and Scrunchies to reach a retail platform.” We are so proud of Meagan following her dreams, and wish her many more sales and success!