Tahera, a 36-year-old woman living in the Haji Abbas neighborhood of District 12, is the mother of two children; Milad, 9, and Mehnaz, 3. With unwavering determination and a heart full of hope, she has transformed her life from economic and social limitations toward self-reliance and progress. Her husband works in a paint shop, and most household responsibilities rest on Tahera’s shoulders.
During a period of migration to Iran, Tahera was able to continue her secondary education up to the eighth grade. However, after returning to Afghanistan, family challenges prevented her from continuing her studies. Despite this, she never stopped learning and striving. Tahera already had a basic knowledge of sewing and, using an old sewing machine, earned a modest income for her family. She says: “I always wanted to support my family and stand on my own feet. Even when life was difficult, I kept telling myself that I could build something better.”
The turning point in Tahera’s life came when she joined the capacity-building project of Hand in Hand Afghanistan. Through this program, she learned professional tailoring skills as well as business and financial management. She says; “Before joining the training, I only knew a little about sewing. The project taught me professional tailoring and how to manage money. That changed everything for me.”
At the end of the course, the organization provided her with the essential tools to expand her tailoring activities. With these new skills and resources, Tahera now offers custom sewing services for neighbors and local customers. Her weekly income has risen to 1,000 – 2,000 Afghanis, an amount she previously earned only in an entire month. She has also learned the principles of saving and is planning for her future.
Tahera’s self-confidence has increased remarkably, fueling a strong motivation for further growth. She now dreams of establishing her own tailoring workshop, not only to expand her business but also to create employment and training opportunities for other women in her community. Tahera Says; “My confidence has grown so much. I dream of opening my own tailoring workshop, where I can also teach other women and give them a chance to work.”
Tahera’s message to other women is:
“Work hard and never lose hope, because hope is the light of life.”
In conclusion, Tahera expresses heartfelt gratitude to Hand in Hand Afghanistan for their unwavering support and for creating opportunities that foster women’s growth and empowerment.
