After several months of learning, collaboration and socializing, the initiative “Cut, Sew, Embroider – Connecting Generations”, implemented by the KUD “Bratstvo” from Istočna Ilidža, was successfully completed. The initiative provided participants with an opportunity to acquire new practical knowledge and skills while actively contributing to the preservation of their community’s cultural heritage.
A total of 23 children and young people aged 15 to 25 took part in the activities. Through workshops, they developed practical skills, creativity and a stronger sense of belonging to their community. During the implementation period, 15 tailoring, sewing and embroidery workshops, each lasting three hours, were successfully organized and delivered. With the support of four KUD volunteers, participants learned the basics of using a sewing machine, pattern making, hand and machine sewing techniques, as well as various embroidery methods. Particular emphasis was placed on practical work and the production of traditional costume elements that KUD will use during future performances and cultural events.
An added value of the initiative was its intergenerational dimension. More experienced members and volunteers shared their knowledge and expertise in tailoring, sewing and embroidery with younger participants, while at the same time encouraging their interest in tradition, cultural heritage and community spirit. This approach demonstrated that valuable skills and knowledge are most effectively passed on through practical work and collaborative creation.
As a result of the participants’ joint efforts, 15 women’s skirts, 4 dresses, 4 men’s waistcoats, 6 women’s waistcoats, 8 pairs of men’s trousers, 7 aprons, 6 belts decorated with sewn-on jewelry, and 20 floral hair accessories were produced. All items have been added to the inventory of KUD “Bratstvo” and will be used in future performances and cultural heritage promotion activities. In this way, the results of the participants’ work will continue to have value long after the project’s completion.
Beyond the tangible products created, the project contributed to building participants’ self-confidence, creativity, teamwork and sense of responsibility. Young people gained new knowledge, developed practical skills, and spent their free time in a meaningful way through activities that connect tradition with the interests and needs of today’s youth.
The strong interest demonstrated by participants confirmed that young people are eager to learn about traditional crafts when given the opportunity to do so through creative and practical experiences. Their reflections illustrate this clearly:
“What I liked most was that we were able to create something ourselves that will be used during our society’s performances. I learned how to use a sewing machine, and now I feel much more confident about sewing things on my own.” Lana, 16
“Through the workshops, I learned how much effort goes into making traditional costumes. I particularly enjoyed learning embroidery techniques and creating jewelry for traditional attire.”
Viktor, 16
“It makes me proud to know that I will wear costumes at our performances that I helped create together with my friends.” Nemanja, 16
The initiative demonstrated that children and young people can be important agents of positive change when they are provided with opportunities, support and space to act. At the same time, it contributed to preserving cultural heritage, strengthening intergenerational cooperation, and promoting the active involvement of young people in community life.
The initiative “Cut, Sew, Embroider – Connecting Generations” was implemented within the framework of the project “Connecting the Dots 2.0 – Advancing Child Participation in Decision-Making for Improved Child Rights and Democracy in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, implemented by World Vision BH Foundation and the Association Naša djeca Sarajevo, in cooperation with the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the financial support of the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
