Earlier this year, as part of our Monthly Muse series, we sat down with Amirah & Aamilah, the facilitators behind Lyrical Muse’s upcoming workshop, Second Story – Project Upcycling, for a conversation on creativity, conscious living and the values shaping their sustainable fashion brand.
Now, as Lyrical Muse prepares to welcome them for an interactive upcycling workshop on August 1, we caught up with the duo once again—this time to explore why upcycling has become more relevant than ever, how creativity can be cultivated rather than inherited, and why sustainability often begins with something as simple as looking at everyday objects differently.
At a time when conversations around sustainability can often feel overwhelming or out of reach, upcycling offers something refreshingly practical. It isn’t about chasing perfection or investing in expensive alternatives. Instead, it’s about rediscovering value in what we already own, reducing waste with intention and embracing creativity as an everyday habit rather than an occasional hobby.
Ahead of the workshop, Amirah & Aamilah share why they believe upcycling is far more than a craft—it’s a mindset capable of changing the way we think about creativity, consumption and community.
Upcycling isn’t a trend. It’s a mindset.
Many people still dismiss upcycling as another sustainability buzzword, but Amirah & Aamilah see it very differently.
“Upcycling is a mindset rather than a trend,” they explain. “It’s something that has always existed in the little efforts made by our mothers and ancestors to reuse and repurpose what they had. Today, it has become more important than ever, considering the level of consumption and waste around us. Sustainability is a way of living and a shift in perspective, and upcycling is one of the most meaningful ways to embrace that change.”
That philosophy extends far beyond giving old materials a new purpose. For the duo, choosing to repair, recreate and reimagine is also about redefining value itself.
“We believe we lose a meaningful way of celebrating life and its purpose—not only through creativity but also by contributing to a better future.
“To us, value isn’t determined by whether something is brand new. True value lies in the care we give to the little things, the intention behind every creative decision, and the time and effort invested in bringing something back to life.
“In a world that moves so fast, upcycling reminds us to slow down, appreciate what already exists, and create with purpose. It has given us a deeper sense of ownership, not just over the things we make, but also over the role we play in caring for our home planet.”
Creativity is learned, not inherited
One theme that kept resurfacing throughout our conversation was the idea that creativity isn’t reserved for naturally artistic people. It’s something that grows through experimentation, curiosity and giving ourselves permission to try.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to be naturally artistic or highly skilled to upcycle. The truth is that upcycling starts with curiosity, not expertise. Anyone can learn to see everyday objects differently.”
According to them, that misconception exists simply because many people have never had the opportunity to explore creativity in this way.
“We think this misconception persists because many people simply haven’t had the opportunity to explore it, which is exactly why we host these workshops—to show that creativity is something everyone can develop.”
That philosophy shapes the way every workshop is designed – not around getting the “right” result, but around discovering new possibilities. “We believe creativity exists within all of us; it’s simply about learning to see things differently.”
Recalling one of their favourite workshop moments, they shared the story of a participant who originally planned to make a mug cover but realised midway that the piece she’d created wasn’t large enough. Instead of abandoning the project, she transformed it into a notebook cover.
“It turned out absolutely stunning. We think it’s a great example of adaptability and imagination.” Rather than asking participants to recreate one specific project, they encourage exploration, experimentation and personal expression to create something that’s uniquely their own.
“Along the way, we help nurture their creativity, problem-solving skills and confidence, allowing them to discover the endless possibilities of upcycling.”
What ‘Second Story – Project Upcycling’ is really about?
Although participants will leave with something they’ve created, the facilitators are quick to point out that Second Story – Project Upcycling workshop isn’t designed as a conventional DIY class.
“It’s a hands-on, interactive experience where participants get to explore ideas. We hope they leave not only with something they’ve created but also with a fresh perspective on everyday objects and greater confidence in their own creativity.”
Participants will also receive a certificate recognising their participation, but for the facilitators, the biggest takeaway isn’t something that can be framed.
Looking back on the many workshops they’ve facilitated, they say the projects themselves are memorable, but it’s the people who stay with them long afterwards.
“What stays with us every single time are the smiles and sense of pride on everyone’s faces at the end of each workshop. It’s an indescribable feeling and a beautiful reminder of why we do what we do.”
Lyrical Muse x Amirah & Aamilah
This marks Amirah & Aamilah’s first official collaboration with Lyrical Muse, and they believe the partnership feels like a natural extension of both teams’ shared values.
“Lyrical Muse celebrates creativity and storytelling, which aligns beautifully with the way we approach sustainability. We’re incredibly grateful to the team for their constant support throughout this collaboration.”
Speaking of that, the duo also shared why communities like these play an essential role in making sustainability feel less intimidating
“Creative communities like this make sustainability feel approachable, inspiring and something people genuinely want to engage with. They play such an important role in spreading awareness and encouraging more people to become part of the conversation.”
If you’re curious, you’re already ready
As the conversation drew to a close, we asked what they’d say to someone still wondering whether this workshop is for them. Their answer reflected everything we’d spoken about over the course of the interview: sustainability isn’t about perfection, and creativity doesn’t begin with expertise – it begins with curiosity.
For anyone sitting on the fence and wondering whether upcycling is for them, they offer one final thought.
“If you’re curious to learn, that’s all that matters. You don’t need any experience. For us, these workshops are about introducing a mindset rather than simply teaching a craft.
“We upcycle because we want to contribute to something much bigger, and we know we can’t do that alone. Imagine if even one person in every home started looking at waste differently. That’s one less item heading to a landfill and one more opportunity to create something meaningful. As more people adopt this way of thinking, that individual impact grows into a powerful chain of positive change.
“That’s the purpose we’re working towards. So don’t feel intimidated—just come with an open mind and a willingness to explore. We’d love to share everything we’ve learned so far and create alongside you.”
Ready to register?
Second Story – Project Upcycling takes place on Saturday, August 1, 2026 (2:30 PM–4:30 PM IST). Hosted by Lyrical Muse in collaboration with Amirah & Aamilah, the interactive online workshop invites participants to rethink waste through creativity, conscious design and hands-on exploration.
Whether you’re completely new to upcycling or simply looking for a fresh creative outlet, the workshop offers a welcoming space to experiment, learn and discover how everyday objects can tell entirely new stories.
Reserve your spot here: https://forms.gle/ULmtmYBqFScbTeUf9
Will you be joining us? Tell us what you’d love to upcycle by tagging on Instagram and X, and follow Lyrical Muse for more workshops and creative community events.
(Featured Credit: Amirah & Aamilah)
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