The constant hum of a sewing machine is heard as 36-year-old Firooza, with tired hands and a hopeful mind, continues to turn it, determined not to fall behind in life.
“Since my childhood, I dreamed of becoming a seamstress, doing embroidery, and earning an income to help support my family’s economy,” she said.
Twelve years ago, Firooza brought her first sewing machine to her home in the city of Firozkoh, the capital of Ghor, and now she is known as one of the most successful female entrepreneurs in the area.
Over the past 12 years, Firooza has taught dozens of women and girls how to sew, helping them gain skills and become financially independent.
She adds, “I’ve been sewing for many years and have graduated many students. I still have students who come at different times to learn. They have learned well and are now earning an income, and I charge a fee for the classes to support my family.”
In her small sewing workshop, Firooza patiently teaches her students all stages of garment making, and also helps them learn how to perform basic repairs on sewing machines. In this workshop, women and girls learn to sew various types of women’s dresses and practice bead embroidery.
She emphasizes, “I can make any kind of dress. For example, Punjabi dresses, sari skirts, and other models. I charge for the clothes I make and also sell the ready-made garments. I accept orders as well.”
This entrepreneurial woman mentions that she now receives clothing orders online from various provinces, sewing each item for between 200 to 800 afghanis.
Some of the girls, who have been unable to attend school and come to Firooza’s workshop to learn sewing, express their happiness about being able to step out of their homes and acquire a skill that will help them achieve financial independence.
Aziza, one of these girls, says, “I’ve been attending the sewing course for almost two months now. I’ve learned cutting and sewing, and this program is really good. After the schools closed, it became a great way for us to stay occupied. Here, we can learn sewing, and in the future, we can help our families financially and stand on our own feet.”
Firooza, emphasizing the importance of her work for both herself and other women, says that in addition to providing opportunities for more women and girls to learn sewing, she hopes to expand her workshop and further develop her business.
