CSR ACTIVITY Fordata's involvement in the reactivation of the 'Dare to Dream' sewing workshop in Nairobi

Fordata is not just technology – it’s people! In business, it’s not only about making profits, but also about taking actions that positively change the world and support those in need. This is why we have been actively supporting social initiatives that make a real impact on people’s lives for many years. One such project is our involvement in the revival of the “Dare to Dream” sewing workshop in Mathare, one of the poorest districts in Nairobi.

Mathare is a district facing many challenges, yet it is also a place filled with incredible energy and potential. The “Dare to Dream” sewing workshop exemplifies how supporting the right initiatives can transform the lives of local communities. For many women working there, the workshop has become not only a source of income but also a space where they can develop their skills and build a better future. This small room with sewing machines offers them shelter from chaos and uncertainty.

“Dare to Dream” is a non-profit organization where women in Nairobi handcraft bags, backpacks, waist bags, and other products inspired by African designs. The sewing workshop was revitalized after originally starting operations in 2017 as the “Ushirika Cooperative.” Initiated by artist Alicja Wysocka and the Polish Razem Pamoja Foundation, women in the cooperative learned to sew from scratch under the guidance of specialists, and for several years, they produced backpacks, clothing, and bags. Unfortunately, the pandemic led to the cooperative’s closure in 2020 due to a lack of orders from Europe.

Fortunately, Konrad Piskała – a writer, photographer, and independent journalist who runs the blog “Afryka okiem reportera” – heard this story and wrote a “message in a bottle.” This message reached Poland, resulting in an initiative by a few individuals to revive the sewing workshop. Thanks to their efforts, “Dare to Dream” was born. The workshop has been operating for several months, producing bags, backpacks, and waist bags.

How did the news about the “Dare to Dream” workshop reach Fordata? It was all thanks to Ola Porębska-Nowak, co-founder of Fordata, who always cares about those in need. Ola initiated the action, and the #FORDATAteam took the reins.

We started with the “Women for Women” initiative, which embodies the idea of mutual support among women. Fordata, as a company founded and led by women, sees this collaboration as more than just a business partnership. It is a mission to support women in challenging circumstances, giving them the tools to develop and build independence.

We began by ordering hand-sewn backpacks, which are given to Fordata’s female clients. These backpacks are not just practical products, but above all, a symbol of support for the local community, for women who gain a chance for a dignified life through this work. The products from “Dare to Dream” are aesthetically pleasing, with unique designs characteristic of the Kenyan region. They symbolize solidarity between the wealthier North and the poorer South, while also promoting local craftsmanship and culture. Through these backpacks, Fordata aims to emphasize that by choosing Fordata’s services, clients are also becoming part of a larger movement for social justice and equal opportunities.

We took it a step further by purchasing cribs for the sewing workshop, providing a comfortable space for children to sleep while their mothers work. Starting in July, we committed to sponsoring the rent, electricity, and internet for the workshop for 10 months, ensuring they can stay connected with the world.

Fordata is not stopping at one-time support. We also encourage our clients and business partners to get involved in similar initiatives and to share information about “Dare to Dream.” Supporting projects like “Dare to Dream” is an investment in the future that benefits not only local communities but also builds a global network of solidarity and support.

How can you join the project? Companies can place orders for personalized “Dare to Dream” products, initiate new distribution channels, and individuals can purchase unique, handcrafted items available in the online store at daretodreamok.pl. For those interested, social media channels (Facebook, LinkedIn) are also available to follow the workshop’s ongoing activities. We encourage you to stay connected.