Hakima – supporting a step family
Hakima faced many problems; her husband was falsely accused of theft and was imprisoned which caused the family severe financial hardships.
Hakima got married at the age of fifteen. Her new husband’s first wife had died and Hakima became a step mother to two daughters. At the time of their marriage, Hakima’s husband was employed at a bakery and was making a good salary that covered all their household expenses. Hakima’s financial prosperity did not last longer when her husband was sent to prison. By then, she had seven children to care about and with no income of her own, her future appeared bleak.
Hakima had limited skills in embroidery and beadwork, but she did not know anywhere outside the area where she lived. Stepping outside of home and looking for a job was not an easy task for Hakima.
Hakima contacted her friend, Zainab, whom she thought could advise and help her. Zainab told Hakima about Zardozi to register herself in its programs. Hakima says, “After joining Zardozi and taking part in the training, I started working with 2 – 3 people and my skills improved daily. Slowly, my financial situation also got better when I started work; I could meet all the household expenses. My children were able to attend school and I also paid 300,000 AFS to the prison officials so that they will let my husband go.” She added, “I’m so glad to be a part of Zardozi, both myself and my husband are thankful to Zardozi for improving our lives.”