Stitched for Success: Turning Skills into Futures with Vocational Training in Jordan

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May 6, 2025

In the city of Irbid, Jordan, the Zakat Foundation of America’s Vocational Training Center (VTC), part of its Livelihoods programs, is helping build financially stable futures for families facing poverty. Through classes in embroidery, sewing, photography, computer skills, painting, Islamic arts, and more, trained professionals are not only opening doors of opportunities for the 1,517 new students but also instilling self-confidence in those striving for a more secure future. 

Kafa Awdeh, a 39-year-old Jordanian woman, lives with her older sister after the passing of their parents. Due to challenging life circumstances, she was unable to complete her education. Her only financial support came from a modest amount earned by renting out her late father’s house, an income that barely covered her basic needs. 

Faced with these difficulties, Kafa began searching for a job to supplement her income. However, after a long and unsuccessful search, she decided to learn a craft that would enable her to start her own business. She discovered a passion for handmade straw products and dedicated time to mastering this craft. Unfortunately, as demand for such products declined, she was forced to seek a new skill to sustain herself. 

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Kafa found herself drawn to sewing and determined to build a better future, she discovered the Zakat Foundation of America through a student at the Irbid Vocational Training Center. There, she enrolled in specialized courses such as fashion sketching, dressmaking, casual wear tailoring, and bag-making. With this newfound expertise, Kafa launched her own clothing design and tailoring business, turning her passion into a viable source of income.

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On a personal level, Kafa experienced a boost in her mental well-being, gaining self-confidence and a deep sense of satisfaction as her financial situation steadily improved. She credited the training courses with helping her expand her network, enabling her business to reach a wider customer base. Grateful for the support she received at the Irbid Training Center, Kafa expressed a strong desire to continue learning and developing her skills to take her business even further. 

A total of 257 students have graduated from the Irbid Vocational Training Center with skills they are passionate about. Moreover, the center fosters a holistic environment by offering 13 workshops on topics ranging from psychological support and domestic violence protection to narcotics and psychotropic substances, as well as hygiene practices. As these students embrace a newfound sense of hope, a strong support system stands behind them, equipping them not only with the skills to excel in their fields but also with the knowledge to protect themselves from societal harm. 

Published: May 6, 2025
Categories: Stories