A Celebration of Skill and Stregnth: Graduation Day at the Maine Stitching Academy

Portland, ME — On June 26, 2025, friends, family, and community supporters gathered at the Maine Stitching Academy in Portland to celebrate the graduation of six dedicated students from the advanced-level sewing and fashion design program offered by Women United Around the World (WUAW). This milestone marks the end of a rigorous nine-month training intensive that equips women with professional stitching skills, career readiness, and newfound confidence.

Graduates included Christina Nkashama, Jolie Samabi, Ruth Akelabela, Charlotte Lossou, Soki Rondani, and Veronique Martha, all of whom received certificates of completion. In addition, four students were award√Portland, ME — On June 26, 2025, friends, family, and community supporters gathered at the Maine Stitching Academy in Portland to celebrate the graduation of six dedicated students from the advanced-level sewing and fashion design program offered by Women United Around the World (WUAW). This milestone marks the end of a rigorous nine-month training intensive that equips women with professional stitching skills, career readiness, and newfound confidence.

Graduates included Christina Nkashama, Jolie Samabi, Ruth Akelabela, Charlotte Lossou, Soki Rondani, and Veronique Martha, all of whom received certificates of completion. In addition, four students were awarded professional sewing machines, made possible through generous community donations. These tools will support their continued journey toward economic independence and entrepreneurship.

“Programs like this are critical in the times we’re living in,” said Mufalo Chitam, Executive Director of the Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition, who attended the celebration. “We have to really look at economic empowerment, and it’s programs like this that connect us and empower people all the way to the grassroots level.”

Other special guests included representatives from Sea Bags, Jill McGowan, Inc., and local supporters of WUAW’s mission.

Four students—Marie France Ilunga, Pamela Mbele, Alda Severine, and Gisela Matona Maurette—advanced to the intermediate and advanced levels. Alda Severine and Christina Nkashama were recognized as Outstanding Students for their exemplary performance and leadership.

Founded by Portland-based fashion designer Adele Ngoy, WUAW enables immigrant and underserved women through hands-on vocational training. The Maine Stitching Academy provides a pathway to sustainable employment, creative expression, and economic independence.ed professional sewing machines, made possible through generous community donations. These tools will support their continued journey toward economic independence and entrepreneurship.