KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Teens in Knoxville had the chance to express themselves creatively while learning new skills and making some money on the side, all part of a program at The Bottom.
The organization hosted the "Sew It Sell It 2021" program starting July 6. As part of the program, participants who are 12 years old through 16 years old could sew a product and sell it. Officials said it would give them a chance to learn new vocational skills and express their creativity, while also making some money.
Participants will not need prior sewing skills to participate in the program. All equipment and supplies will also be provided for free, according to a release from officials.
They said participants will learn business and professional skills alongside vocational ones. Those skills include branding, marketing and how to give a good pitch to businesses.
The program was set to last 4 weeks and was available for children in underserved communities, according to officials. It will run through July 31. Anyone who wanted to apply to be a part of the program could do so online.
Officials also asked for applicants to submit a video explaining why they are interested in the program and the program they would want to develop.
The Bottom is named after Black neighborhoods and business centers that were lost in the 1950s during urban renewal programs, and today works to provide a space where the community can gather and celebrate their culture.