Episode 1 | Pass It On: Sewing Sessions | Meet Sidnie and Diana

Welcome to the first episode of 'Pass It On: Sewing Sessions', a sewing series created as part of the Rekindling Nello James heritage project by us, Rekindle School. This series celebrates African and Caribbean heritage skills through sewing, while highlighting the creativity, craftsmanship and community knowledge that has been passed from one generation to the next. In this introductory episode, meet Sidnie Pantry and Diana Smith, two highly respected seamstresses who have dedicated decades to their craft and are well known across South Manchester. Together, they share their journeys into sewing, the experiences that shaped their careers, and why passing these skills on to future generations matters. Inspired by the legacy of the Nello James Centre which was a community hub in Whalley Range, where practical skills and community learning were celebrated, this series helps preserve heritage while encouraging people to make, mend and create for themselves. Over the coming episodes, Diana and Sidnie will guide you through sewing machine basics, taking measurements, understanding patterns, and making your own simple A-line skirt from start to finish. Whether you're an experienced maker or picking up a needle for the very first time, we hope these videos inspire you to learn something new and help keep these important skills alive. --- About Rekindling Nello James Rekindling Nello James is a National Lottery Heritage Fund project led by Rekindle School 2025-2026. The project celebrates the legacy of the Nello James Centre in Whalley Range, preserving African and Caribbean heritage through community storytelling, creative projects and shared learning. Find out more: www.rekindlingnellojames.org If you enjoyed this video, don't forget to like, subscribe and follow the series as we continue passing these valuable skills on to future generations.