Crafts shop re-launched

LAHORE: Women of different walks of life attended the re-launch of the All Pakistan Women Association (APWA) crafts shop - a pioneer in preserving the art of artisans and crafting communities.

The crafts shop exhibited the products of more than 10 women. This included handmade Kurtas, key chains, metal crafts, cushions, embroidered quilts and recycled material. They made envelops and gift bags out of newspapers.

Ruhi Sayid, Chairperson and Member of the Executive Committee APWA Punjab said, “This crafts shop was established in 1949 at The Mall, Lahore. But then it was shifted to Jail Road. After the gap of some years, we are re-launching this store to encourage women and making an effort to increase their income. We have done many projects with ILO and Women Development Department for domestic workers. We have 14 branches in different districts and 43 all over Pakistan. With this platform, the role of middleman will be deleted and women can sell their products to direct customers.”

Sadia Suhail, Member of Punjab Assembly PTI said, “APWA is working for women empowerment since partition. They are helping women in accepting their skills and working hard to increase their income and participate in the national economy.”

Farrukh Nisar-ul-Haque, executive member said, “Education was the main purpose of APWA. APWA Punjab working women hostels provide state-of-the-art facilities for working women who come from other cities.

Shakeela Khanum Rashid, former MNA and APWA's Senior Vice-Chairperson in Punjab said, “So many ladies who belong to APWA are sitting in assemblies but they are not doing anything for women." Justice Nasira, Dr Farzeen Malik, Nusrat Jamil and many other women attended the exhibition and purchased goods.