Ms. Ayesha, a determined 19-year-old from Sheer Abad village, has demonstrated incredible resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Losing her father 13 years ago thrust her into a position of responsibility alongside her mother to provide for their family, which includes her 15-year-old sister, and 16 and 13-year-old brothers. Despite these challenges, Ayesha completed her schooling last year and is now pursuing online courses to achieve her dream of attending her favorite university, defying the restrictions on girls’ education in Afghanistan.
Ayesha and her mother initially supported their family through basic tailoring, primarily sewing men’s clothes, which provided only a modest income. However, Ayesha’s life took a significant turn when she joined a vocational tailoring class in her community. Her eagerness to learn advanced tailoring skills quickly paid off.
“With the support of Hand in Hand Afghanistan and its donors, I learned to sew various types of men’s and women’s clothes,” Ayesha shares proudly. This training not only expanded her skill set but also equipped her with the necessary tools to enhance her business. Now, as her mother’s ability to work declines, Ayesha has taken the reins, becoming the primary breadwinner for her family.
Ayesha’s talent and hard work have transformed their financial situation dramatically. The family’s income has nearly doubled, increasing from 4,000 AFNs to 7,000 AFNs per month. Her reputation as a skilled tailor has grown, attracting a considerable number of customers within the community. “I am very happy and grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow. It has changed our lives,” she says.
Ayesha’s journey is a testament to the power of talent and empowerment opportunities. Her story inspires many, showing that with the right support and determination, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
