Commencement is the start of something new.  Students leave a time of study and venture off in a new direction.  For the women of the Point Hope Sewing Project, Saturday January 24, 2009 was a most special day.  They were the first women to complete the course.

The Women entered singing and dancing, attired in the first of the dresses they had confected.  While each dress was made from the same cloth, all were of a unique design that relected each woman's individual, unique personality.  The women glowed with pride.  

Special dignitaries representing the UNHCR, the NCS, and the Point Hope Ghanaian Board attended the ceremony to celebrate the womens' success.  The Master of Ceremony was Ms. Kebbeh Freeman, a vibrant woman who conducted the ceremony as one might a religious revival.  There were shouts of praise and 'Hallelujah!' in recognition of what the women have accomplished.

There were prayers offered by a local pastor, several addresses and songs, including one by the woman in the Batik-making group.

There were also two skits performed by the students.  If they are not able to make a living sewing, they most definitely would have a shot at stardom in acting.  They were humorous skits that extolled the importance of education in building a life for oneself.
The course instructor, Vera Barshaw, presented individual awards to outstanding students for best in class, most friendly, best behaved, etc.

Delilah, who was unable to attend the ceremony due to family and work commitment back in the States, sent prepared remarks that were read by the director of Point Hope.  Delilah recounted her love and commitment to the people of Buduburam and shared her experiences as a single mother, something she had in common with most of the women of the group.  She closed her remarks by saying “do your best and let God do the rest”.  Remarks that were greeted with applause and cheers.

Each graduate was presented with a diploma and brand new sewing machine, so that they can use their new skills to help their families and community.  These machines are operated by “peddle power” which allows the women to sew whether or not they are able to afford electricity.

We are proud of the women, and thankful for the donations that everyone has given us to help make this effort possible -- but we aren't stopping there!  There are plenty of others who would love to have been able to participate in this program, and we are going to extend it to everyone we can.  Click here to learn more about our program, or simply proceed to the donation page, and offer your support today!