TEACHERS ASSISTANT
Swakopmund, Namibia
Teachers Assistant,
June 2023 - August 2023
During my internship, I balanced dual roles as a seamstress and designer while also working as a teacher's assistant. I dedicated 12-hour days to my craft, splitting my time equally between assisting students and contributing to the brand. This included a wide range of responsibilities, such as coordinating photoshoots, redesigning the brand’s website, designing and sewing garments, creating a flipbook, and mentoring students. Many of the students who completed the course were able to transition into professional roles, working as seamstresses for the brand, highlighting the impactful and practical nature of the training.
Splitting my time became one of my most meaningful accomplishments during my time, as I was teaching students to sew from diverse Namibian tribes; including Oshiwambo, Kavango, Damara, Nama, Himba, Herero, and members of the coloured community. This experience allowed me to connect with their unique cultural styles and traditions in ways that books could never teach. It deepened my appreciation for their heritage and gave me a profound sense of purpose as I saw their skills grow and their creativity flourish.
CENTER
COSDEF
ARTS &
CRAFTS
This center is where we taught the students, which resided across the courtyard from Couture By Kim's brick and mortar.
basics
BACK TO
Photo Captured in Pattern Making Course
When teaching my students, I emphasized the importance of mastering the basics of sewing, starting with pattern making. To construct a well-sewn garment, it’s essential to first understand how to properly create a pattern. Upon arriving, I noticed that many of the students’ patterns had inconsistent seam allowances and mismatched seam lengths. Once I recognized this, I taught them how to check seams correctly and stressed the importance of maintaining consistent seam allowances throughout their patterns. I supported my students in all aspects of design, including sketching, pattern making, cutting, and sewing, as well as during examinations and lectures. Additionally, I assisted my boss by grading patterns, exams, and finished garments.
LESSON PLANS
GRADING &
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I played an integral role in supporting my boss and creative director, Kim Matheus. I worked closely with her to grade students' work, ensuring that assessments were consistent and constructive. We collaborated on curating lesson plans for the week, carefully reviewing the projected schedule and adjusting as needed to ensure that the students received the most relevant and impactful learning experiences. Together, we planned out each week’s objectives, balancing practical skills with creative development, and I was actively involved in shaping the curriculum to meet both the students' needs and the goals of the brand.
