In Bamyan, Afghanistan, a powerful new initiative is helping women turn a cherished tradition into a pathway toward economic independence. Under the Women Protection Project, funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), WAW has launched the Cherma Dozi vocational training Program. This program is not only about learning embroidery, but also about empowering women to preserve Afghan cultural heritage all while rebuilding their lives and gaining economic independence!
What is Cherma Dozi?
Cherma Dozi is a form of traditional Afghan embroidery and decorative stitching, practiced for generations by women across the country. These intricate designs are woven into garments and household textiles, symbolizing culture, skill, and creativity. With this vocational program, this age-old art form is being transformed into a sustainable livelihood for women who need it most.
Who the program supports.
The program currently serves 50 women in Bamyan, Afghanistan, many of whom have been displaced by conflict or have recently returned to Afghanistan after years abroad. For these women, access to stable income opportunities is limited. This training not only provides marketable skills but also creates a safe and supportive environment for them to connect and heal.
How the training works.
Over five months, two skilled trainers lead morning and afternoon classes at the Bamyan Women’s Community Center. Each session lasts two and a half hours, giving women ample time to learn, practice, and refine their embroidery skills.
To ensure long-term success, each participant receives a comprehensive professional toolkit that includes:
- A sewing machine
- An iron and chair
- A gas cylinder
- Sewing tools
- A solar power system
- Raw materials for creating Cherma garments
This level of support equips women not just to learn, but to immediately begin producing high-quality work for income generation.
A look into the future.
The Cherma Dozi Program is about more than stitching fabrics, it’s about stitching together hope, healing, and future possibilities. It’s a testament to our vision for investing in HER, through Hope, Empowerment and Resilience.
Our vision for the program is one that creates:
- Economic Empowerment: Graduates are prepared to launch small businesses, contribute to household income, and achieve financial independence.
- Cultural Preservation: By practicing Cherma Dozi, women are ensuring this centuries-old tradition continues for future generations.
- Mental Health & Community: Classes also function as safe spaces for women to connect, share experiences, and build resilience in the face of challenges.
As participants complete their training, they leave with professional tools and confidence and community. Each stitch is filled with motivation for a more empowered life, and you are the reason behind it. With your support, initiatives like the Cherma Dozi Program, Afghan women are leading the way in rebuilding their lives and safeguarding traditions, even in the face of adversity.
