An inclusive wearable textile arts-mediated approach for marginalized communities : participant satisfaction and perceptions of psychosocial well-being​

Abstract

This study outlines a globally transformative textile arts-mediated programme for marginalised communities, driving policy innovation through a model of inclusive, arts-driven social empowerment. Uniting institutions across Hong Kong (PolyU), Vietnam (DAU), Thailand (RMUTP) and Rwanda (CFC Vocational School), it establishes a cross-cultural, intergenerational framework endorsed by the HKSAR government and funded by the Arts Development Fund for PWDs (2024–2026) and the Beat Drugs Fund (HK$2.4M). This scalable blueprint addresses systemic barriers to arts participation, prioritising psychosocial equity and holistic wellness for marginalised groups. It is now used to guide international policymakers. The programme featured inclusive design workshops, fashion shows and exhibitions across community centres and universities, developed through iterative prototyping and the meaning-centred approach. Its pioneering mixed-methods design, combining focus group interviews with carers/guardians and pre/post psychological assessments, validated reductions in social interaction anxiety and improvements in self-acceptance. Large-scale engagement strategies redefined grassroots participation, offering actionable insights for global replication. Recognised through the QS Reimagine Education Silver Award 2024 (Sustainability Education Action), this work is a landmark in policy innovation, bridging grassroots needs with institutional action to amplify marginalised voices. It introduces a dynamic empowerment model fostering social, cultural and generational dialogue, enabling marginalised groups to explore identities, co-create inclusive arts visions and identify psychosocial benefits. By equipping governments with evidence-based strategies to advance cultural equity, the research underpins global initiatives in disability inclusion, addiction recovery and community resilience. Dissemination through Global Journal of Human Social Science (2023), annual styling showcases (2023–2025), international exhibitions (2024–2025) and a keynote at RMUTP (2024) cements its role as a catalyst for sustainable policy reform. Highlighting the power of the arts to drive societal change, this study aimed to establish a benchmark for inclusive, scalable interventions, positioning inclusive design as a cornerstone of global social empowerment agendas.