2024 Session 45 Report: A Leather Bag Making Workshop
Developing Practical Skills and Entrepreneurial Spirit
- Date: December 7th, 2024
- Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Former Caravan 4, Aja-Pessu (Pessu Town), Warri
- Attendees: 70 participants, 3 volunteers
- Activity: Leather Bag Making Workshop
- Facilitator: Mrs Chika Jekwu, CEO of Jeks Shoe and Bag
Session Summary:
This hands-on workshop provided participants with practical skills in leather bag making, from start to finish. This session directly addresses the Economic Mandate by fostering skills development and entrepreneurial thinking. It also touches upon the Social & Cultural Mandate by showcasing traditional crafts and the creativity involved in design.
Session Details:
Participants were informed about the session beforehand, arriving prepared and excited. Following the opening prayer and Itsekiri anthem, Mrs. Chika Jekwu, CEO of Jeks Shoe and Bag, was introduced as the guest facilitator.
Chika’s demonstration of crafting a leather bag from scratch was captivating. Witnessing the entire process gave participants a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and the effort involved in creating something by hand.
This interactive learning experience provided valuable lessons in:
- Creativity: Chika’s demonstration inspired participants to think creatively. The fact that the process began with measurements was a fascinating revelation.
- Problem-solving: When Chika encountered a challenge finding the right leather for the bag’s lining, she adapted by using a colourful fabric instead, demonstrating problem-solving skills and resourcefulness.
- Patience and attention to detail: Chika’s meticulous approach emphasized the importance of patience and attention to detail. The participants were focused, observing and patiently awaiting the final product.
- Entrepreneurship: Chika’s passion and success in turning her craft into a business inspired participants to consider their entrepreneurial potential.
The workshop covered the materials and tools used in leather bag making:
Materials:
- Main leather
- Lining leather
- Accent leather
- Buckles
- Screws
- D-rings
- Leather glue
Tools:
- Leather cutter
- Hole punch
- Mallet
- Ruler
- Pencil and marker
- Measuring tape
- Work surface
The specific materials and tools used varied based on the design, size, and type of bag being created.
The workshop also detailed the bag-making process, from sketching the initial design and creating patterns to cutting the leather, attaching hardware, and assembling the final product.
Volunteers:
- Debi Amadedon
- Emmanuel Egbe
- Toju Ogharandukun
Key Activities:
- Hands-on leather bag-making demonstration
- Explanation of materials and tools
- Overview of the bag-making process
Session Outcome:
The session was a success, with no reported issues. Participants gained valuable practical skills and were inspired to explore their own creative and entrepreneurial potential.
