The Tailor Project
Our Heritage
Our Story Began in 1948!
In the aftermath of the devastating Holocaust, a glimmer of hope emerged for approximately 2,500 tailors and their families. These people who had survived the horrors of persecution and displacement and were now faced with the daunting task of rebuilding their shattered lives.
Little did they know that a new opportunity awaited them in Canada, one that would forever change their destinies.
group of visionary business leaders in the garment industry recognized the shortage of laborers and tailors in Canada. They understood that they could address this shortage while simultaneously providing a lifeline to those who had suffered immeasurable loss. With jobs in hand, the tailors and their families were finally able to rebuild their lives after years of devastation. The employment they found through the scheme allowed them to secure housing, put food on the table, and create a foundation for a brighter future.
The issues of labor shortage and unemployment among newcomers continue to persist today. However, recognizing the transformative power of our heritage story and building upon the lessons learned from the successful Tailor project, the Impakt Foundation for social change is committed to provide innovative programs that cater to the employment requirements of Canadian businesses while simultaneously addressing the issue of unemployment among newcomers.
To learn more about the Tailor Project, visit https://tailorproject.ca/
We are Telling the Tailor Project Story
The Tailor Project was led by apparel industry leaders Max Enkin, Samuel Herbst, Bernard Shane, David Solomon, and Sam Posluns. In 2017 we were approached by Max Enkin’s son, Larry Enkin, who wondered what happened to the 2500 tailors and their families. Since then, we have been collecting these stories and sharing them in a book being published by Second Story Press, and we have an upcoming documentary that will be produced by YAP films. These stories weave together their experiences and follow the lives of the second generation living in Canada today.
On May 1, 2019, we had an event called Common Thread at Holy Blossom Temple that brought together tailors and their families in honour of their achievements. Click here to watch Larry Enkin’s speech. To buy “The Tailor Project” book click here.
Martina Ambiri, Former Executive Director, speaking at Impakt Foundation’s World Refugee Day event
The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, speaking at Impakt Foundation’s Tailor Project event