When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, many turned to crafting as a way to cope with the uncertainty and anxiety of lockdowns. Craft skills like knitting became a beloved outlet, leading to a surge in demand for The Nest Community’s preloved craft supplies and low-cost workshops.

Inspiration from the Past

Amidst the chaos, the question “What more can we do?” arose. Drawing inspiration from The Craft Nest Project—our organization’s origin—we decided to create a free mentoring program focused on intergenerational connection. Our goal was to provide vulnerable girls with a welcoming space where they could connect with older women and learn hand-making skills to boost their self-confidence and resilience.

Launching the Mentoring Program

With a team of experienced, craft-loving volunteers and a partnership with a local high school, the concept for the mentoring program began to take shape. In 2021, The Nest secured funding from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, and the Exchange Project was launched in collaboration with Mt Maria College. Each week, ten mentors welcomed six girls into our Everton Park space for an experience reminiscent of spending an afternoon at Grandma’s house.

Expanding Opportunities

Thanks to the pilot program’s success, we had the opportunity to partner with a second high school.

“Students who attend have flourished under the guidance of experienced mentors, honing their creative abilities and discovering new passions along the way,” says Joanne Smith, a teacher at Mitchelton State High School.

When we relocated to The Sheds, a spacious industrial site in Brendale, we prioritized recreating a nurturing environment. This was essential not only for continuing the program but also for housing our Heritage Collection of sewing memorabilia. We secured a tenancy adjacent to the Haberdashery, and the Gladys Mary Studio officially opened in December 2023.

Securing Funding

To support the program, we successfully applied for a Community Activities Grant of $10,000 from the Moreton Bay City Council. Coupled with a $2,000 donation from our long-term patron, Tim Mander MP, the program was fully funded until October 2024.

Resuming the Exchange Project

The Exchange Project restarted in Term 4, 2023, continuing with Mitchelton State High School while Bray Park State High School joined in Term 2, 2024.

We’ve observed that the program’s outcomes have been particularly notable among the Mitchelton students who have participated for several terms. There’s a strong camaraderie within the group, and they attend eagerly, making the most of their time at The Nest.

Transformative Experiences

We recently welcomed back a former student who had participated two years ago but had to change schools. When she first joined, she was vulnerable and struggled with trust. It was heartwarming to see her relaxed, smiling, and laughing with others during her return visit. The Nest has provided her with a safe space to navigate significant challenges from her early years.

Over the first half of the year, participants completed a variety of individual projects. To instill the values of community giving, they will soon begin working on group projects to donate to our Christmas craft stall, raising funds for The Nest Community.

Celebrating Volunteer Contributions

In the past four years, 40 different volunteers have shared their skills with over 200 girls. Teachers and mentors consistently observe how students come out of their shells, strengthen relationships, explore new skills, and, most importantly, demonstrate increased confidence in school.

Looking Ahead with Community Partnerships

In September 2024, the Zonta Club of Brisbane North approached us to sponsor the Exchange Project for two school terms. Zonta is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering women and girls through service and advocacy, working locally and globally to promote gender equality.

We look forward to engaging more community partners to ensure this successful program continues to thrive in the future.