Threads of Empowerment aims to foster financial independence for women worldwide, one stitch at a time.
A trip to India in 2022 inspired Azam Mansuri, HealthSci ’25, and his Grade 12 brother, Raihan, to launch Threads of Empowerment. The non-profit organization empowers women in marginalized communities by providing the tools and training necessary for financial independence. Since its founding, Threads of Empowerment has reached 490 women worldwide, donating 1,700 sewing machines and supplies, and offering training programs to help build sustainable livelihoods.
While the organization has expanded its operations to India, Pakistan, and Gambia, they’re dedicated to building a training facility in Gambia for women to learn how to grow their skills, Mansuri said.
“I want to emphasize that Threads of Empowerment is about much more than just sewing machines. It’s about changing how communities value and support women. Every machine represents a pathway to dignity and choice,” Mansuri said in a statement to The Journal.
The choice behind making sewing machines directly ties to sewing being a skill rooted in the cultures of the region the organization supports, particularly in India. The sewing machine also ties into India’s historical journey towards independence, symbolized by the thread-spinning wheel on the national flag, according to Mansuri.
Beyond its cultural roots, sewing also has a sentimental value for Mansuri, whose grandmother used it to support his family when she arrived in Canada from India. Seeing her strength and resilience made him understand how a sewing machine can be a tool for empowerment.
“In essence, a sewing machine is more than just a tool or equipment—it stands at the intersection of tradition and economic opportunity, symbolizing hope, independence, and the chance for a better future,” Mansuri added.
Despite early challenges securing funding, Threads of Empowerment gained momentum in mid-2023 after launching a website to showcase success stories and measurable outcomes. The initiative secured approximately $16,000, enabling the organization to expand and partner with local suppliers.
Looking forward, Mansuri hopes to expand the organization’s reach through permanent training in sewing, financial literacy, and small business development. The organization is also focused on developing local leadership by training women to become instructors, ensuring sustainability and cultural relevance. Additionally, it plans to diversify income streams to ensure long-term stability through grants and corporate sponsorships.
“Every [sewing] machine represents a pathway to dignity and choice,” Mansuri emphasized. “We are deeply grateful for the support we have received and remain committed to building a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.”
Tags
Non-profit organisation, Sewing, women empowerment
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