SONAR - A JEWEL OF EAST LONDON
(28 October 2003)

The launch of the SONAR project, by Newham's College's Centre for Innovation & Partnerships (CIPS) and the Newham Chamber of Commerce, may ensure a sparkling future for East London's new and established jewellery designers, manufacturers and retailers. Following the acclaimed success of the Asian Dreams Fashion shows, CIPs decided to extend its support to the extensive local jewellery trade concentrating at first on the many businesses in and around Green Street.

At the heart of the SONAR initiative is a project team comprising Samee Mian, David Reeson, Aldyth Crowther and Nadia Khalid. Sonar's website outlines the specialist advice on officer with a free introductory consultation and subsequent sessions at subsidised rates. Participants can learn about window dressing, digital photography, computer aided design, website development, shop signage, marketing techniques and get access to specialist courses in gemmology, diamond studies, laser welding etc.

Commenting on his experience with Sonar, Jay Raniga of Gokaldas Jewellers said, "I benefited from the consultations with Sonar's team of experts who showed me some invaluable short cuts and tricks of the trade".

During the next few months Sonar will be running a series of networking evenings with expert speakers on subjects including gemmology, 3D computer design, visual merchandising and marketing. Courses in new technologies and traditional craft skills will be offered by The British Gemmological Society, Holts of Hatton Garden, London Metropolitan University, The University of East London and the Clerkenwell Green Association.

As Sonar's three year programme progresses and its lessons are applied, Green Street shoppers will be captivated by stunning window displays and decorated shutters. Their visual impact will be judged in CIPs organised competitions for the most original and effective ideas.

The new Sonar initiative promises to be a vital step forward in the drive to put Green Street on the shopping map for Londoners and visitors seeking something exotic and different in jewellery and fashion.

Click here to visit the Sonar website.