Ashford Award 2025 Update – Tukya Foundation
Deb from Sunny Daze Textiles Brings Weaving to Life in Tukya Village
Last year, Deb from Sunny Daze Textiles was named a joint recipient of the 2025 Ashford Textile Award, sharing the honour with another applicant. With her $2500NZD grant, Deb was able to purchase spinning and weaving equipment to support the creation of the Tukya Threads Learning Centre in Tukya Village, West Bengal, India—a place where tradition, creativity, and opportunity come together.
A Centre for Learning and Culture
When Deb arrived with the new equipment, excitement filled the village. The children couldn’t wait to open the boxes, and the rigid heddle looms were an instant favourite. Villagers came together to assemble the looms, and even though weaving roles are traditionally very specific, Deb encouraged young girls to try new tasks, adding a fresh, playful energy to the process.
The children were particularly fascinated by the Kiwi spinning wheel, which many had never seen before. With Deb’s guidance, they quickly learned to spin, weaving curiosity and skill into every session.
The centre now offers training in weaving, spinning, and natural dyeing, and plans are underway to build an Art Centre and Dye House to support workshops, natural dyeing, and expanded craft production.
Weaving Tradition into Education
One of the most exciting outcomes of Deb’s visit was the commitment from the local school to include weaving in its curriculum. This ensures that children will grow up learning traditional textile skills, preserving their cultural heritage while developing practical abilities for the future.
Empowering Young Women
Deb was especially inspired by four young women, aged 17–19, who quickly embraced weaving. They have since become teachers themselves, guiding younger children, assisting in the school, developing advanced skills, and starting to earn an income through their work at the centre. Their leadership is helping ensure the project’s sustainability and empowering a new generation of artisans.
A Community Transformed
Thanks to Deb’s efforts, the learning centre is becoming a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and learning. Beyond textiles, children are reconnecting with their heritage through song and dance. Every day brought opportunities for the community to share traditions—and Deb joined in, learning and celebrating alongside them.
The centre also creates economic opportunities, reduces the pressure for young people to move away, and provides a safe, creative space where culture and craft are celebrated.
Looking Ahead
Despite challenges like flooding and limited resources, the future is bright. Deb and the community plan to expand weaving education, provide advanced artisan training, establish market pathways for handmade textiles, and complete the Art Centre and Dye House.
What began as an award-funded project is now a thriving cultural and economic initiative. Deb’s work shows how craft can empower communities, preserve heritage, and open doors for the next generation.
Deb is deeply grateful to the Ashford family for supporting Tukya Threads through the 2025 Ashford Textile Award. She will continue to be involved in the project, returning to Tukya in March 2026 to further support the learning centre and its inspiring community.
