Norma believes strongly in the value of passing down hands-on skills like lace-making. “There will come a time when we need all these skills,” she says, with the wisdom of someone who has seen trends come and go. “Everything comes into fashion and goes out again, and I’m old enough to know,” she adds with a smile. For Norma, it’s not just about the craft itself but the joy of inspiring others. Over the years, she’s taught many people, some of whom have gone on to become teachers themselves—a legacy that fills her with pride. 

Her journey is part of a larger narrative that spans families, communities, and cultures worldwide. From mastering lace-making to learning a cherished family recipe, skills passed down through generations are a treasure trove of knowledge. These abilities enrich lives and form the threads that bind us to our past while also inspiring the future. 

Norma’s story is captured in this film as part of The Skills In Us series, which celebrates the extraordinary talents of ordinary people and the wisdom they share. The series explores how skills are passed down—from parents to children, mentors to apprentices, and within communities. It highlights the beauty of these intergenerational conversations and the deep value of sharing knowledge in meaningful, lasting ways. 

For Norma, lace-making is more than just creating delicate patterns; it’s about friendship, tradition, and the satisfaction of passing something valuable on to future generations. “I’ve met so many wonderful people of all ages through teaching and learning lace-making,” she reflects. It’s a craft that fosters connection, patience, and creativity, and it never gets boring. 

Her message is clear: we are never too young or too old to learn new skills. Whether it’s lace-making, sewing, knitting, or any other craft, these timeless abilities provide a sense of accomplishment, connection, and creativity. More importantly, they hold the potential to be passed on to the next generation, ensuring that this rich heritage remains alive and thriving. 

Through her love of lace-making, Norma exemplifies how traditional skills can bridge generations, bringing people together and preserving cultural heritage. By teaching others, she has ensured that this beautiful craft lives on, cherished by new hands and hearts. 

You can watch Norma’s film below. 

The Joy of Sharing Skills Across Generations   

1. Preservation of Knowledge: Sharing skills between generations helps ensure that valuable knowledge and traditions are kept alive. This is especially important for nurturing traditional crafts, cultural practices, and unique skills that enrich our lives and could easily be forgotten.   
2. Growth in Professional Settings: In workplaces, passing skills from experienced employees to younger team members not only supports high standards of competence but also creates a nurturing environment. This mentorship fosters the sharing of best practices and insights, allowing everyone to grow together.  
3. Personal Development: For younger generations, learning from their elders opens up wonderful opportunities for personal growth and the development of essential life skills. This exchange encourages respect and understanding, strengthening the bonds between different generations.   

 As we find ourselves living in an increasingly digital world, the importance of preserving and sharing traditional skills cannot be overstated. Norma’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the rich source of knowledge that exists within our families and communities. Each skill passed down— like Norma’s lace-making skills — carries a legacy that connects us to our past and empowers future generations.   

By embracing and celebrating these skills, we not only honour those who came before us but also enrich our own lives and the lives of others. The act of sharing knowledge helps us build deeper connections, inspires creativity, and cultivates resilience in a rapidly changing world.   

Let us take a moment to reflect on the skills within us and the unique stories they tell. Together, we can ensure that these invaluable traditions continue to thrive, weaving a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. Join us in celebrating and sharing the skills that define us—because when we pass on our knowledge, we create a legacy that lasts.