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Imagine being far away from home, stuck in an unknown place, and searching for hope in difficult times. This is the reality for many migrants living in Temporary Reception Centers (TRCs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina. But even in these hard situations, creativity can be a source of strength and joy. That’s where the No Nation Fashion (NNF) project comes in—and how our amazing volunteers have made a difference.
What Is No Nation Fashion?
No Nation Fashion is a creative program that started in the TRCs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was first started during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way for migrants to design and customize masks.
Over time, it grew into a full clothing design project, where migrants can create, sew, and showcase their own unique fashion pieces. The project is based in the Ušivak TRC, which is a center for families and unaccompanied minors.
It also occasionally welcomes residents from Blažuj TRC, which mainly houses single men. No Nation Fashion offers more than just sewing lessons it also provides a space for creativity, getting new skills, and empowerment.
How our Volunteers Contributed
Our volunteers played a important rule in No Nation Fashion project. They volunteered to provide necessary support and empower migrants through their roles. Volunteers worked closely with migrants to teach them how to use sewing machines and design their own clothes. For those who were new to sewing, volunteers were showing them the basics, having in mind their background and insuring that everyone felt confident and included. Our team of volunteers organized workshops where migrants had floor to explore their creativity. These workshops were not just about sewing, they were about creating a supportive and inspiring environment, that can help migrants to bridge the difficult times better. Volunteers helped migrants design garments, fix old clothes, and even experiment with creating high-fashion pieces. Our volunteers facilitated group activities where migrants were able to share ideas, learn from each other, and create together. These moments of teamwork helped build a sense of community and connection, which is of upmost priority when people are stuck in an unknown place, searching for hope, in difficult times.
What happens with clothes that migrants are making?
When the clothing created in the NNF studio was showcased at fashion events across Europe, our volunteers played a key role in making it happen. They assisted with preparing garments to coordinating interviews and translation for migrants who wanted to share their stories with the world, thanks to the language, soft and other skills our volunteers are equipped with.
Apart from the creative work, volunteers were there to listen and provide emotional support, which migrants were very thankful about. They understood the challenges that migrants are facing and keeping that in mind they made sure the NNF studio felt like a safe and welcoming space. By being present and supportive, they helped migrants to feel valued and heard.
Stories of Impact
One memorable moment was when a Syrian father, with the guidance of our volunteers, created a stunning dress that could competitor on a runway. The volunteers’ support and encouragement allowed him to discover his passion for tailoring and started believing in his skills again.
Another highlight was a workshop where volunteers invited young men from Blažuj TRC to join the NNF studio. Volunteers facilitated discussions on questions like:
- “How can fashion create change?”
- “What have you learned about acceptance and other cultures during your journey?”
The migrants, guided by volunteers, shared thoughtful insights and worked on creative designs that expressed their hopes and dreams.
A Space designed for Hope and Healing
Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, the NNF studio became more than just a place to sew. It became a hub of hope, creativity, and healing. Volunteers worked hard to make sure participants felt comfortable and supported, whether they were sewing a new garment, enjoying a cup of tea, or simply chatting about their experiences.
Looking Ahead
No Nation Fashion shows how much of a difference dedicated volunteers can make. Their efforts have helped migrants to get a sense of purpose, build new skills, and dream of brighter futures, beyond the borders of TRCs. By working hand in hand with participants, our volunteers have shown that creativity and solidarity can transform lives, one stitch at a time.
This initiative is a beautiful reminder of the power of teamwork and compassion. Thanks to our volunteers, No Nation Fashion has become a shining example of how art and humanity can come together to make the world a better place – so make the world wonder.