In partnership with the PRADA Group, UNFPA has donated machinery to beneficiaries under the "Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears" project. The equipment was handed over to beneficiaries at the Ussher Hospital in Accra.
The project which aims to promote gender equality, women empowerment, and sexual and reproductive health in a 6-month training programme for young women in Ghana and Kenya was launched in 2022.
So far, the project has equipped participants with knowledge and practical skills relevant to the fashion industry and facilitated internships with local fashion companies to establish long-term work opportunities for the women enrolled in the project.
A specimen of the equipment provided to the beneficiaries under the UNFPA-PRADA project, named: "Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears"
Head of the Gender Unit at UNFPA Ghana, Dr. Doris Mawuse Aglobitse, who presented the items on behalf of the UNFPA Ghana Representative, Dr. Wilfred Ochan, expressed the commitment of UNFPA to empowering women and bridging the gender equality gap in labour.
Harriet Hudson-Ghartey, who received the items on behalf of the hospital, commended UNFPA and the PRADA for their support. She went on to admonish parents and the beneficiaries not to demean the fashion design profession.
Dr. Doris Aglobitse presenting the items to the Ussher Hospital for use by the beneficiaries of the "Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears" Project.
At the climax of the project, PRADA will award a full scholarship package to a girl from either Ghana or Kenya who distinguishes herself creditably to New York. UNFPA and PRADA are delighted to work with the young women to improve their agency andntinue to work towards sustainable development solutions.
A cross-section of guests at the ceremony for the handing over of the fashion design equipment.