Khenifra Women's Handicraft Association

Morocco

Since 2008, Khenifra Women’s Handicraft Association has employed Moroccan women artisans to create handmade jewelry from agave silk. This silk is spun into beads used on the djellaba, a Berber hooded kaftan traditionally worn by Maghreb and, sometimes, Arab women. The beads used in the Khenifra’s jewelry are made in the same manner as djellaba beads, thereby bringing a traditional and culturally significant touch to modern jewelry. The artisans sell their creations on the global market in order to financially support their families, gain independence as craftswomen, and improve their overall quality of life. The organization hopes that in the future, they will be able to hire more artisans and begin community-building projects.