I'm Mahawa
Profile
A childhood experience re-shaped my life from an only child to a very, creative, strong and curious young girl .That’s where my love for culture and craft was born.
Born in Dakar capital city of Senegal, later moved to my mom’s village Gunjur, in The Gambia after the sudden death of my father. She lost everything then started trading to make ends meet at the same time keep me in school.
I join the kids in my area. we make most of our toys like rag dolls and designing little garments for my self -made doll.
We made footballs, high jump poles, board games like Ludo, chess, snake and ladder from materials we found. I would create a village out of sticks and sand or mud with my hand, combining unexpected colour we see around us.
I relocated to UK where I am now for more than a decade, pursuing Higher Education has enabled me to find my strength and opportunities to aim higher. During this journey I have learnt how to be in the textile industry and progress. I learnt advanced constructive textile techniques I never dreamed of for example machine knit and embroidery techniques and gold work to with many other hand craft skills. I always make sure I use my maximum potentials in whatever I do and this makes me feel a brighter about the future of my designs work and ideas.
Skills
Hand and machine knitting, Hand and machine embroidery, Sewing, Macrame, Pattern cutting, Project drafting, Textile art Concept Development and CAD design(photoshop).
Achievements
CREATIVE SPIRIT AWARD
I was awarded the creative award by Birmingham University City, Art, and Design at the end of studies celebration.
END OF 2ND YEAR CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION in May 2020
I was awarded with a certificate of recognition for innovation and creativity by Birmingham city university, Art, and Design.
FINALIST FOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2019
I was a finalist for Emerging Designer of the year at the Midland Fashion Award 2019. I was in the top five amongst many other applicants. 80% of the collection I presented for the competition was hand crafted because I wanted to display my strong passion for textile.
STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2017
Received student of the year award from South and City College