In March, WIP accepted two new seamstresses, Charlotte Bart-Plange and Hannah “Mansa” Darbah. The women were selected through an application process agreed upon by the WIP members at their February meeting.
Charlotte Bart-Plange, a native of Cape Coast, began sewing almost 25 years ago. She worked out of her home and struggled to find consistent business to keep her afloat.
Charlotte once had apprentices, but had to let them go when she didn’t have enough business. Charlotte worked hard and succeeded in securing ten permanent clients, and was able to move into her own store three months ago.
With her new profits sewing men’s shirts for Global Mamas, Charlotte hopes to bring on more employees. “They will help me expand my business,” says Charlotte.
Mansa, owner of “When Jesus Says”, has been a seamstress in Cape Coast for the last seven years. She opened her own shop three years ago. She runs a successful business, but knew that she could do more.
Mansa has begun sewing Global Mamas’ new yoga bags. She will take on more projects as the clothing line expands.
With her new profits, she plans to expand her business in several ways. She would like to move to a new store, take on new apprentices and employees and buy a new electric sewing machine.
“I am so happy,” says Mansa, of her new work with Women in Progress.