On 17 May 2025, our Waste Innovation Station Headquarters (WISH) hosted Mend It May: Beyond Borders, an evening that brought together community, creativity, and culture through the beautiful art of mending. Mending is a critical skill to help prolong the life of garments, limit unnecessary new clothing purchases, and reduce the resource strain on the environment.

A Celebration of Culture, Craft, and Connection

The event invited attendees to bring along their tops, dresses, or denim pieces and reimagine them with a fresh twist. This enhanced a deeper connection between fashion, identity, and sustainability.

With the soothing melodies of South Asian sitar music setting the tone, the space transformed into a workshop of storytelling and stitching. Participants were introduced to the history of the saree, a traditional garment worn by women in South Asia, which consists of a long piece of cloth that is wrapped around the body in various styles.

The event delved into the saree’s cultural significance and the powerful role it plays in shaping feminine identity across generations. A pre-event donation call brought in a beautiful collection of surplus saree laces, which were then repurposed into the workshop. These intricate trims, often rich in detail and history, became the perfect embellishments for the garments people brought in to upcycle.

As hands moved across fabric and stitches brought old clothes back to life, the aroma of South Asian snacks filled the room. Our wonderful volunteers prepared homemade treats like samosas and aloo tikki, offering participants a taste of the region’s rich culinary culture while they worked.

In total, over 1.6 kilograms of saree laces were repurposed. Feedback from participants highlighted a desire for more such events that blend hands-on creativity with cultural exchange.

Keep an eye on our calendar of events page for upcoming events. We can’t wait to share more culture and craft with you.

Mend It May: Beyond  Borders reminded us that beyond all the borders, we are humans who have a deep desire to share our culture, art, and life experiences.