Our Story
We care about our beginnings.
Crocheting requires two things: a hook and material. Because of the simplicity of the crocheting process, Heleen, who moved with her family to Mozambique in 2013 as missionaries, believed this would be an intentional way to establish relationships with the local bush women while teaching them a skill. After seeing the women’s interest in learning the trade, the possibility of hand making bags became a reality. Deciding what material to use proved difficult; Heleen originally believed wool would be the easiest material to use to teach the women, but quickly discovered that wool was too warm to use in this region. After a bit more time in Mozambique, Heleen easily decided that capulanas, large pieces of fabric traditional to Mozambique, were readily available and well known in the community as a sturdy fabric. With all of the inputs necessary to begin, Athiyana was formed.
Since 2015, Athiyana has had its up and downs. In the beginning, Heleen taught over twenty women the basics of crocheting; however, only three women continue to make the bags on a consistent basis. The disconnect between hard work and a steady income is visible; many of the women don’t understand the benefit of the production of the bags and the security they provide. However, the three women who stuck around understand they get 100% of the profits from the bags they make, encouraging them to continue working hard. Another struggle Athiyana has faced is the lack of a local market. Heleen began by selling the bags to family, friends, and visitors, but quickly realized a larger market was necessary for the women to benefit from their labor. For now, Athiyana is selling locally with hopes of expanding to other countries in Africa and abroad. With a forward focus, Heleen continues to establish friendships with local women expecting to see lives changed, poverty reversed, and women empowered.
