At NOOR by Grant Blvd, every stitch tells a story. Through our Fashion the Future Forward program, we aim to highlight the craft, dedication, and transformation that come to life through the hands of our talented sewists. Today, we’re sharing a heartfelt conversation with Felicia, one of the incredible women in our program, whose journey reflects the beauty and purpose behind our brand.
Kimberly: One of the things I’ve been reflecting on is how we tell the story of the work we’re doing together. How do we also tell your stories as individuals? I think that’s important because, in today’s world, we often don’t connect what we buy to the people who create it. And that makes us care less about the things we own. The hope is that by sharing your story and insights, people will start to think differently about the things they buy and the businesses they support.
Felicia: Yes, I agree. Being here has been such a blessing. I’m so close and hands-on now that when I go out to shop, I see things completely differently. It’s like when you’re on a diet and you start reading food labels, paying attention to what’s better for your body. Now I’m paying closer attention, not only to food but to the clothing I buy. I want to know where a product comes from, that it’s sustainable, and that it’s made with care. That knowledge changes how I see everything.
This experience has been very personal for me—I’m learning as I go. And it’s amazing.
Kimberly: Where are you from?
Felicia: I’m born and raised in Philadelphia—North Central, close to Temple University. I’ve been here for 50 years, so I’ve seen a lot of changes. I’ve watched factories and companies come and go, and I see the gentrification happening now. It’s like a freshness, but at the same time, I don’t want my community to get lost.
My family has been rooted here for generations. My grandparents, my parents, myself, and now my son—we all became homeowners in the same community. That means so much to me.
Kimberly: What made you decide to join this project?
Felicia: It started with my daughter. She went through another program and saw women learning how to sew. She said, “Mom, you always wanted to learn how to sew. That’s your dream.” And she was right.
I’ve always loved to sketch and do still-life artwork. I used to watch my grandmother make rag dolls and clothes, but back then I didn’t pay close attention because I was so focused on drawing. I never had the opportunity to learn sewing in school. We had home economics, metal shop, and wood shop—but not sewing.
This program changed that. I’m finally learning, and I’ve realized there’s so much to it—like the different types of sewing machines. We have top-of-the-line machines here, like the Juki for buttonholes and the Serger. I’m looking forward to mastering them.
Kimberly: As we near the end of the program, what has sewing taught you?
Felicia: First and foremost, it’s taught me to have grace—to give myself grace and allow myself to grow. It’s also taught me patience and focus. I’m retraining my mind and disciplining myself, and that’s such a gift.
They always say, “one stitch at a time,” and that’s become a powerful lesson. Sewing is peaceful. It gives me space to focus, to be calm, and to create something new. I never thought I’d have this opportunity.
Kimberly: If you could tell people about NOOR by Grant Blvd—what makes it beautiful to you?
Felicia: I see beauty all over this place. First, it’s the opportunity you’ve given us—a chance to learn and grow. NOOR reaches back into the community and creates space for people like me to chase dreams we thought were out of reach. I always dreamed of this, but I never pursued it because I wasn’t sure there was a space for me—especially at my age. But you created that space.
When I walk through the doors, I feel love, compassion, hope, and excitement. It’s a peaceful place where I’m learning not just sewing but also what I need to do for myself. I’m pacing myself and learning new techniques, and that’s been life-changing.
I hope one day I can pay this forward. I talk about Grant Blvd all the time because what’s happening here is amazing. The yoga, Wellness Wednesdays—these are things that were on my bucket list, and now I’m doing them! I love it here.
Kimberly: Yes! We’re just getting started.
Felicia: Thank you so much. This is a blessing, and I’m so grateful.
Felicia’s journey reminds us that every piece we create at NOOR by Grant Blvd carries a story—one of transformation, resilience, and hope. Through programs like Fashion the Future Forward, we celebrate the people behind our garments, bringing intention and beauty to every stitch.
Stay tuned for more stories, and explore the collections that are thoughtfully crafted by women like Felicia. Together, we’re redefining luxury one stich at a time.