45 Fashion designers train on technical fashion designs

The training, organized by SheTrades and Andandorr (YEP) under the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, is designed to connect these women entrepreneurs to international markets.

EIF, OPEC and the Government of The Gambia are funding the training that is part of a three-year project.

A Senegalese fashion expert, Mr Momodou Diallo and three others from MoStyle were the resource persons during the three-day intensive fashion training.

The training exposed participants to technical drawing, pattern cutting, designing, and sizing, amongst others.

Speaking to this reporter at the end of the training, Momodou Diallo said the training would enhance the capacity of participants, as they have undergone an intensive 3-day training on technical patterns of cutting, designing amongst others.

“We have taught them how to take proper measurements and what to do to make sure that they know how many meters of fabric is enough for a person,” he added that the expert team also trained them on how to cut and sew more appropriately.

The Senegalese fashion expert however called on the government of The Gambia to help young designers with the required materials, adding that such support would encourage the efficiency of fashion designers in the country.

The proprietress and creative director at Gamplus Clothing, Youma Wally Ndong described the training as the greatest opportunity for her, adding that she has learned a lot that could boost her work as a designer.

“The technique that I’ve learned in the hardest way down to the shortcuts is really amazing. This has widened my knowledge in the production of garments. I never knew that certain things when not put in to consideration might end up in a very bad finishing product.”

Ms Ndong explained that with the knowledge she gained from the training, she would now be able to control and monitor the product quantity she wants to produce for her business.

Rebecca Oli Jallow, a participant from the She Trades project, acknowledged that she has learnt a lot from the training, saying the knowledge gained is a challenge for her to do more.

Isatou Simaha, a fashion designer and a participant under the Andandorr project, described the training as chance and opportunity for them to network and partner with fellow designers.