Seventy percent of women in upper Egypt are unemployed, struggling to provide for their families. Some women also face challenges accessing basic human rights. While crafting is a culturally accepted livelihood, to transform it into an income generating activity, women need guidance.
Through HANDS’ crafting program, women are connected with mentors and given tools to start a small crafting enterprise. Training and mentoring empowers them to transform their home-based craft activities into a sustainable income. Nearly 300 artisans have already completed this life-changing program, creating stability for their future. One young woman, Hanaa, once worked alone and with simple tools from her modest home, struggling to sell even five leather products per month. After participating in the program, she increased her profits by 300% and now trains and employs other underprivileged women in her community. Photo credit HANDS
