A group of women workers in Dubai is boosting their incomes by making colorful handmade crochet dolls. These unique dolls, dressed in bright yarn outfits and sporting long, wiry hair, have attracted buyers from both individuals and companies.
One woman, who works as a housekeeper, was able to earn Dh1,500 from selling her dolls, which is more than what she usually makes in a month.
The project started with the help of the SmartLife Foundation, a non-profit organization in Dubai. They provided crochet lessons to women living in Sonapur, offering classes every Saturday. Recently, the foundation began sharing a portion of the money made from doll sales with the women, allowing them to benefit financially from their skills.
Rima Kumari, a housekeeper from Nepal, has found the experience to be both surprising and fulfilling. After selling 34 of her crochet dolls, she earned Dh1,450. She expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s amazing that I can make money by stitching dolls. I loved crocheting from the very first day and spent all my free time making these dolls.”
This initiative not only helps these women earn extra money but also empowers them to learn new skills and express their creativity. It shows how crafting can lead to financial independence and personal satisfaction, making a positive impact on their lives.