Fashion Fusion CIC, a Doncaster-based social enterprise championing sustainable fashion and community creativity, has expanded its hands-on workshop programme thanks to a UKSE Kickstart Grant, delivered in partnership with the South Yorkshire Community Foundation (SYCF).

Founded in 2022 by Estelle Pearce, Fashion Fusion CIC was born from her passion for sustainable fashion and her desire to provide accessible creative opportunities for people across South Yorkshire.

With over 16 years in the fashion industry, Estelle combines her experience as a designer, community practitioner and Digital Fashion lecturer to deliver high-impact workshops that promote confidence, skills development and environmental awareness.

The Kickstart grant enabled Fashion Fusion to purchase essential sewing machines, tools and materials to launch its popular Fashion Fix workshops. Since its launch, Fashion Fusion has delivered creative learning programmes across Mexborough, Edlington, Hexthorpe and Doncaster.

Looking ahead, Fashion Fusion plans to expand its offering to include digital fashion and nature-based craft workshops, while further strengthening partnerships with local colleges, community groups and industry collaborators.

Estelle Pearce, Founder of Fashion Fusion CIC, said: “The kickstart grant came at exactly the right time.

“It allowed us to invest in equipment that transformed what we could offer our community. We’ve seen people grow in confidence, discover new skills, and even overcome isolation through our workshops.”

Steve Lyon, UKSE Regional Manager, said: “Estelle has built a wonderful programme that gives people practical skills and a real sense of pride.

“We’re delighted to have supported their early growth, in conjunction with SYCF who are a fantastic partner in our Community Support Program.”

Michelle Dickinson, head of philanthropy and programmes for South Yorkshire Community Foundation, said: “Fashion Fusion CIC is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when you combine investment with passion, experience and innovation.

“We are proud to have worked in partnership with UKSE to support Estelle at such an important time, and it is absolutely wonderful to see how she has used the grant to expand this unique group and provide accessible, creative opportunities for the local community.”

UKSE provides loans and equity finance of up to £1.5m to existing growing businesses, particularly those creating jobs – for further information, please contact the team on 0114 2700 933.