Fariba Turns Handicraft Skills Into Livelihood

KABUL (Pajhwok): Fariba Hosseini, a young woman from Kabul, turned unemployment into opportunity by mastering ribbon embroidery online. Once staying at home due to the suspension of girls' education, she now creates and teaches decorative handicrafts to empower others.

Fariba Hosseini, a resident of Mahdia Township in Dasht-i-Barchi, Kabul, told Pajhwok Afghan News that four years ago she was a 12th-grade student. However, after the Islamic Emirate suspended girls' education, she was forced to stay home.

She said she had hoped to study journalism through the national university entrance exam (Kankor), but when those plans were halted, she chose not to remain idle and instead turned to learning tailoring.

“I discovered ribbon embroidery - also known as Fiteh-doozi - through online tutorials on YouTube,” she said.

Her first project was a decorative newborn set, which she adorned with great care.

Fariba recalls that at the beginning, she faced several challenges, including a lack of confidence from her family.“At first, they didn't believe I could do it,” she said.“But over time, when they saw my talent and dedication, they began supporting me. Now, even my mother and sisters help me.”

She added,“Initially, I had trouble purchasing materials - especially ribbons, which were expensive. But now prices have dropped, and I can afford them more easily.”

Today, Fariba crafts a variety of handmade decorative items using ribbon embroidery. Her products include bridal and baby dowries, decorative wall hangings, ornaments, and other artistic pieces.

She also works as a ribbon embroidery instructor at a local tailoring training center.“I'm happy to be teaching this skill to other young women,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey, she shared:“I never imagined I could learn this craft. In the beginning, when I took my products to market, no one bought them. But now I sell both online and in local shops.”

She concluded,“Every girl has potential. Everyone faces challenges in life - we may fall many times, but with effort and perseverance, we can achieve our goals.”

Fariba believes girls should seize every opportunity available to them and never give up on learning, regardless of their circumstances.

Meanwhile, her elder sister, Anis Hosseini, said:“At first, we didn't think Fariba could do it. But with time and hard work, she mastered ribbon embroidery. She's now an inspiration to me. I've learned the craft alongside her and developed a deep passion for it.”

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