Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Fashion: The Make Fashion Inclusive Project

BlueCrest School of fashion and Design, Ghana has successfully implemented the Make Fashion Inclusive project, a flagship skills development and enterprise empowerment programme aimed at promoting inclusive employment and sustainable livelihoods within Ghana’s fashion industry.

Supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) under the Invest for Jobs initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the project sponsored a total of 100 beneficiaries (fashion business owner with one apprentice) comprising over 80% women and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Through two cohorts, the training provided structured technical, business, and digital skills training to strengthen small and medium-sized fashion businesses in the Greater Accra Region.

Building Skills for Sustainable Impact

Over a six-month period, participants received hands-on training in garment construction, pattern drafting, dart manipulation, fabric handling, and quality finishing. These technical modules were complemented by business management, financial literacy, digital marketing, and occupational health and safety, social protection trainings.

Specialised partners and facilitators of Bluecrest school of fashion and design—including industry experts in fashion production, e-commerce, and enterprise development—played a key role in delivering high-quality instruction.

By the end of the programme:

• 100 beneficiaries completed technical and business modules.
• 85% adopted improved workplace safety practices.
• 80% maintained proper financial records and separate business accounts.
• 75% actively used digital platforms to promote and sell their products.
• More than 40 new jobs and apprenticeships were created.

Positive Feedback and Institutional Recognition

Representatives of GIZ commended the programme for its strong implementation, practical orientation, and measurable outcomes. In their feedback, GIZ noted the “high level of commitment from participants and facilitators” and praised the project’s ability to translate training into real business improvements.

The structured mentoring system, enterprise visits, and continuous monitoring were highlighted as key strengths contributing to the project’s success.

Voices from the Beneficiaries

Beyond the statistics, the true impact of the project is reflected in the stories of the participants.

“Before this training, I was sewing by experience. Now I understand patterns, finishing, and quality standards. My customers trust me more, and my income has increased.”
— Kate Gyamfua

“The business and digital marketing lessons opened my eyes. I now keep records and advertise my work online. I never thought my small shop could grow this much.”
— Amadu Hawiine Nafisah

“As a person with disability, this programme gave me confidence. I now feel respected as a professional in the industry.”
— Peter Dusour

Many participants reported improved self-confidence, stronger customer relationships, and renewed motivation to expand their businesses.

Celebrating Partnerships and Collaboration

The success of the Make Fashion Inclusive project was made possible through strong partnerships and collaboration. BlueCrest College worked closely with SG Bank Ghana, Odina Couture, Prestige Kente, Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA), Chamber for Entrepreneurs with disability (CEPD), Ananse Africa, Enterprise Life and Pensions, Peoples Pensions, National Health and Insurance Authority Ghana (NHIA), among others.

These partners contributed technical expertise, mentoring, market linkages, and institutional support that enriched the learning experience.

A Grand Finale: Graduation and Fashion Showcase

The programme culminated in a colourful graduation ceremony and runway showcase themed Fashion without Limit, where beneficiaries presented professionally produced collections to stakeholders, families, and industry leaders. The event celebrated sustainability, creativity, resilience, and excellence, highlighting the transformation achieved throughout the programme. At the end of the training each beneficiary business received two (2) brand new industrial sewing machines as support from GIZ.

Looking Ahead

The Make Fashion Inclusive project reflects BlueCrest College’s commitment to inclusive education, industry relevance, and social impact.  Through the empowerment of women, persons with disabilities, and emerging entrepreneurs, the College continues to strengthen Ghana’s creative economy and promote decent work.

Building on this success, BlueCrest college remains committed to expanding inclusive training programmes and deepening partnerships that create lasting opportunities for all.

SOURCE: https://vistaview.vistagroup.ae/transforming-lives-through-inclusive-fashion-the-make-fashion-inclusive-project/