Fadi’s story begins in Syria, where, as a ten-year-old boy, he worked in a clothing workshop. His days were spent mastering the craft of tailoring—a passion that grew over the years.
But his path was abruptly disrupted by the Syrian war. Like millions of others, Fadi was forced to flee, leaving behind not only his home but also his dreams. During his perilous journey to Europe, he spent nights out in the open, with no certainty of what the next day would bring.
Eventually, he found safety in the Netherlands, along with an opportunity to reignite his passion. Since 2015, Fadi has led the sewing workshop in Enschede, where Sheltersuits are crafted using leftover materials from the fashion industry.
I know what it’s like to have nothing and to rely on the help of others. With every suit I make, I know I’m helping someone who needs it just as much as I once did.
A new start in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, Fadi connected with the Sheltersuit Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping people experiencing homelessness. For Fadi, this was more than a job; it was a way to transform his own experience into a positive impact for others. Since 2015, he has led the sewing workshop in Enschede, where Sheltersuits are crafted from surplus materials from the fashion industry.
The Sheltersuits are designed to protect against harsh weather, offering a modicum of comfort and dignity to people without shelter. For Fadi, the work is deeply personal. “I know what it’s like to have nothing and to rely on the help of others. With every suit I make, I know I’m helping someone who needs it just as much as I once did,” he shares.
Fashion as a force for change
Fadi’s craftsmanship and life experience make him a unique force within the organization. His background in design and tailoring merges seamlessly with his profound understanding of what it means to live without a roof over your head. Under his leadership, the workshop has produced hundreds of Sheltersuits, each crafted with the same care and attention he once applied to designing dresses.
“Fashion has never been just about appearances for me,” Fadi explains. “It’s about creating something people need—something that helps and protects. At Sheltersuit, I can use my passion for fashion to make a real difference.”
Building a future, together with Sheltersuit
Fadi’s story is one of resilience and the transformative power of shared experiences. He reminds us that behind every Sheltersuit is a team of people with their own stories and dedication. For Fadi, making Sheltersuits is not just a job; it’s a mission.
“When I worked in Syria, I never imagined that my skills would one day touch lives in this way,” he says. “Now, I can work every day toward a better future—not just for myself, but for so many others.”
Fadi’s journey, from a tailoring workshop in Syria to the sewing workshop at Sheltersuit, shows how a personal mission can grow into hope and help for others. As he puts it: “Everyone deserves warmth, safety, and a little humanity.”
Join us in making a difference
Would you like to support Fadi and the work of Sheltersuit? Purchase Fadi's Tote of Hope now in our webshop and support the foundation.
Webshop: store.sheltersuit.com
By doing so, you help us create more Sheltersuits for those who need them most. Together, we can make a difference.
