A Journey of Art and Empowerment
In the picturesque village of Chakpora, nestled in the Sehpora hamlet of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, a remarkable young woman named Afroza Jan is weaving her dreams into reality through the intricate art of Zari work. At just 26 years old, Afroza has dedicated nearly a decade to mastering this traditional craft, which involves creating stunning embroidery with metallic threads. Her talent and perseverance recently earned her recognition from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha during the World Craft Council event in Srinagar, highlighting her as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many.
Afroza’s journey began in 2015 when she learned the art from a relative. What started as a personal endeavor soon blossomed into a thriving livelihood, allowing her to support herself while pursuing her passion. “I have learned this art from one of my relatives and started to work at home, which is giving me good returns,” she shares with pride. Despite being the only woman in her village skilled in Zari work, Afroza has noticed a growing interest among young girls in her community. This realization sparked a vision: she plans to establish a training unit with government support to teach local women the craft, empowering them to earn their own livelihoods amidst rising unemployment.
Empowering Local Women Through Skill Development
Afroza’s ambition extends beyond her personal success; she is determined to uplift other women in her community. “There are hundreds of women in rural areas who depend on their families for everything,” she emphasizes, advocating for financial independence through skill acquisition. By starting a training unit, she hopes to create opportunities for local women to learn Zari work and gain economic independence. Her commitment to fostering empowerment resonates deeply in a region where traditional gender roles often limit women’s opportunities.
With the support of the Handicrafts department, Afroza has been able to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and skill development. She encourages other women to take advantage of government schemes designed to facilitate their growth and independence. “They must take benefit of the government schemes to become financially independent,” she urges, highlighting the importance of self-reliance in transforming lives.
Inspiring Change and Celebrating Heritage
Afroza Jan’s story is not just about personal achievement; it embodies the spirit of resilience and empowerment that can inspire countless others. In a world where economic opportunities for women are often scarce, her determination to share her skills serves as a powerful reminder that change begins at the grassroots level. By investing in education and skill development, Afroza is not only preserving a rich cultural heritage but also paving the way for future generations of women artisans.
As she prepares to launch her training unit, Afroza envisions a community where women can thrive through their artistry, contributing not only to their families but also to the broader economy. Her journey illustrates that with passion, perseverance, and support, individuals can overcome obstacles and uplift those around them.
Inspiration
Afroza Jan stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and education. Her dedication to Zari work and commitment to empowering local women exemplify how one person’s efforts can create ripples of change within a community. As more women like Afroza step forward to share their talents and inspire others, there is hope for a brighter future where creativity and collaboration flourish—a future where every woman can weave her own story of success and empowerment.
