Excitement filled the gym at Allenby Junior Public School as students from Grade 3 and Grade 6 tried something completely new. The , an in-school program led by Denyse Wild, brought sewing machines, mentors, and a hands-on creative experience to the school. The program focuses on mentorship, confidence, inclusion, and equity, while giving students a chance to explore a valuable life skill.
Today, students sewed “confidence pouches,” small fabric bags they can reach into and sprinkle imaginary magic dust whenever they need a boost. Before making their pouches, they practiced sewing along different outlines, gaining skill and precision with every stitch. With 30 machines set up in the gym, each student had mentors at a 1-to-5 ratio guiding them through the process, ensuring everyone felt supported and successful.
“Seeing our students so engaged and proud of what they created today was incredible,” said Principal Lindsay Borden. “The Sewing Studio gives kids a chance to build confidence, try something new, and see the results of their hard work right away.”
Students also met male and female mentors of colour who are professional athletes, artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Matthew Boateng, a former Toronto Argonauts defensive back, shared, “When students see someone like me facilitating, they are breaking away from the stereotypes and I see that they become more engaged.”
By the end of the day, students were holding their finished pouches, smiling and chatting about how they could use their “magic dust.” The program blends mentorship, creativity, and hands-on learning to leave students feeling joyful, focused, and confident. Each stitch and each pouch are a tangible reminder that they can achieve something new when they try.
