Donors/Partners: The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

Implementing Organization: Aleppo-NGO

Project Duration: May – November 2015

Major Goal: To improve the well-being and social conditions of both the Syrian needlework/embroidery master-trainers and registered beneficiaries of Aleppo-NGO, as well as to promote and pass on the tradition of Armenian needlework.

Description: In May 2015, “Aleppo” Compatriotic Charitable Organization launched “Trainings for Women on Traditional Needlework/Embroidery,” a project funded by GIZ as part of the EU  Targeted Initiative for Armenia. The project aimed to improve the well-being and social conditions of both the Syrian needlework/embroidery master-trainers and registered beneficiaries of Aleppo-NGO, as well as to promote and pass on the tradition of Armenian needlework. It provided the women participants with marketable skills, enabling them to create entrepreneurship opportunities and get involved in the economic development of Armenia.

More than forty women, both Syrian and local, participated in the project. Needlework classes of the Hardanger, Van, Urfa and Dantel embroidery styles were organized free of charge. The program concluded with a charity exhibition fair where the participants presented their work and learned about sales techniques and basic marketing skills. Proceeds from the art sold at the exhibition fair were distributed among the project participants.

The project encouraged trainees to create their own pieces of art while bringing attention to the traditional Armenian art form, creating job and educational opportunities, and further aid the participating Syrian women in their integration to Armenia. The women were provided with kits of materials in order to continue their work after the conclusion of the program.