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         Every Thursday afternoon, participants of the creative art club for beneficiaries “Dalia” meet at RCTV Memoria to create the most amazing garments. With support from the club facilitator who has great expertise in relaxation and sewing techniques the participants learn new skills and are given the opportunity to create their own products. As a volunteer at RCTV Memoria we have the opportunity to join the meetings and learn the same sewing techniques as the beneficiaries. Last week I, EVS volunteer at RCTV Memoria since October 2015, attended it and was very impressed by what they are working on.

           The group of beneficiaries decides upon their own interest, what they want to do, but most are knitting, crocheting and embroidering traditional Moldovan blouses called ‘le’. These are beautifully decorated with various embroidered flowers and patterns, which take many hours to work on, but with encouragement from fellow participants, most items are being finalized within a few months. It was incredible to see how the more experienced helped me and a new participant because both of us were both struggling to get it right!

          Even though the women meet every week, most of the work is actually not taking place at the workshop itself. It is a good rehabilitation tool that encourages the beneficiaries to meet and discuss something not related to their previous experiences. Creating something new together connects people and we at RCTV Memoria see many benefits of this weekly club. In case you are interested to learn more about our work with beneficiaries, follow our Facebook page and news update on our homepage.

By Elenore Andersson,

EVS volunteer at RCTV Memoria