Empowering women in the border village of Khndzoresk, our carpet weaving project weaves together economic opportunity and cultural preservation. By reviving traditional artisanship, we're not just creating sustainable livelihoods for low-income families, but also preserving a rich heritage, one beautiful carpet at a time.

IMPACT

Within two years, this project will transform the lives of 50 women from low-income families in Khndzoresk, providing them with stable incomes and entrepreneurial skills. Beyond individual empowerment, it will revitalize a dying art form, boost the local economy, and serve as a model for sustainable, culture-preserving initiatives in other border villages, potentially impacting hundreds more lives indirectly.

The project has already achieved significant early success. Six women from low-income families have completed comprehensive training in carpet weaving and have begun producing high-quality carpets, marking a tangible step towards economic empowerment and cultural preservation in the village.

PROBLEM

The border village of Khndzoresk faces a critical confluence of challenges: high unemployment rates among women, erosion of traditional crafts, and economic instability due to its remote location. This triple threat perpetuates a cycle of poverty, forcing families to migrate and endangering the village's cultural heritage.

Without immediate intervention, Khndzoresk risks losing not only its economic viability but also its unique cultural identity, potentially leading to the village's abandonment. The urgency lies in breaking this cycle now, before the traditional knowledge of carpet weaving is lost to time and before more families are forced to leave in search of better opportunities. Addressing this issue immediately is crucial to preserve the village's heritage, empower its women, and ensure a sustainable future for Khndzoresk and similar border communities.

SOLUTION

Our solution is a multifaceted approach centered on reviving the traditional carpet weaving industry in Khndzoresk.

Implementation Stages, Methods, and Resources:

1. Planning and Preparation (3 months)
2. Conduct needs assessment and market research
3. Select participants and establish partnerships
4. Secure funding and workshop location

Resources: Research team, local contacts, funding for initial research.

1. Setup and Training (6 months)
2. Renovate and equip workshop
3. Develop and conduct training programs
4. Establish quality control processes

Resources: Workshop space, equipment (looms, tools), raw materials, trainers

1. Production and Marketing (12 months)
2. Begin carpet production
3. Implement branding and marketing strategies
4. Establish sales networks

Resources: Ongoing supply of raw materials, marketing expertise, sales channels

1. Scaling and Sustainability (Ongoing)
2. Expand production based on demand
3. Provide advanced training
4. Transition to cooperative model

Resources: Additional equipment, business development support

Methods: Hands-on training, mentorship, quality assurance protocols, market-driven production, community engagement, and continuous evaluation.

OUR TEAM

Our dedicated team at "Ari Khndzoresk" is committed to uplifting the lives of women in Khndzoresk. We are:

• Lilit Satunts, the regional coordinator for the project, with extensive experience in community development initiatives.
• Lusine Aznauryan, the Executive Director, providing strategic leadership and guidance to the organization.
• Narek Adamyan, the President, driving the vision and mission of "Ari Khndzoresk" forward.

PROJECT BUDGET