Res’Art will train women artisans to become economically independent by putting Algerian craft expertise and traditions to work.

Why we care:  Women in Algeria confront discriminatory laws, customs, and policies that prevent them from achieving economic independence.

How we’re solving this:  Women in Communication’s Res’Art project will train a network of women artisans to create their own businesses and mentor young artisans.

Women face unequal access to education and training; land and markets; and financial information and services. They remain segregated in low-paying and irregular jobs that lack security and protection. At the same time, they face increased responsibilities as they seek to meet their families’ needs in uncertain economic times. As families struggle with less money for food, healthcare, and education, girls and women are affected first as they are usually the ones to skip a meal, leading to poor nutrition and poor health. Girls’ education is deprioritized or eliminated as they are expected to work longer hours inside and outside of the home.

Res’Art will train women artisans to become economically independent by putting Algerian craft expertise and traditions to work. Girls will preserve their heritage by learning the art of crafting with local raw materials and recycling. Women in Communication will train 200 female artisans in marketing, e-commerce, and entrepreneurship skills. Women will learn how to increase their production capacity and market their work to increase revenue. At the end of their training, the artisans will have formed their own businesses and will exhibit their work throughout Algeria and Niger.

Creating their own businesses not only improves the economic status of women in Algeria, but also increases their self-esteem and independence. Women artisans are the next generation of social entrepreneurs in Algeria.