LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Louisville organization is working to empower young women through the timeless skill of sewing, empowering them to become independent leaders while fostering critical thinking, positive self-talk, teamwork and social skills. 

What You Need To Know

  • P.R.O.M. is one of several initiatives offered by the ACE Project, which is dedicated to uplifting underserved families and children

  • Students learn skills such as pattern-making, hand-sewing and using sewing machines

  • The goal is to develop independent leaders through sewing while fostering critical thinking, positive self-talk and teamwork 

  • The free program lasts six weeks 

"They're learning how to work with their peers," said Elesha Toomer, program director of P.R.O.M., which stands for "positive reinforcement of myself." "They're making friends; they're learning how to do makeup. They're learning how to care for their themselves, hygiene, just an array of things that will build up a young woman's confidence." 

A seamstress herself, Toomer said she understands what it was like to want to learn to sew and be immersed in the fashion industry. She said she hopes this program fills teens’ desire for creativity and uplifts them.

“The main thing that we want to teach them is not just the skill of sewing but be confident in who you are, who God created you to be,” Toomer said.

Jaymee Angton, who has been involved with P.R.O.M. for more than three years, said the program helped develop her love of fashion. 

"We were doing it every week, and it was something you saw your progress every week,” Angton said.

"I came here, and I got to be with girls that were my own age and just make friendships. I still talk to some of these girls to this day, and we call ourselves 'soul sisters' and we just love each other."

Students such as Angton learn skills such as pattern-making, cutting, hand-sewing and how to use a sewing machine. Angton is now making a dress for an upcoming fashion show and said she believes she can accomplish anything. 

The free six-week program ends with a field trip to tour Atlanta’s business district.

“If they have the tools, if they have the resources and they have the support, all they need is a hand up and we want to give them a hand up,” Toomer said.

Toomer added she hopes can continue to grow and help mold young women. P.R.O.M. is one of several initiatives offered by the ACE Project, an organization dedicated to uplifting underserved children and families.

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