A beautiful solution to a life-long challenge in Afghanistan. How to provide sustainable income to Afghan women with few skills and fewer options. Enter Connie Duckworth. Shortly after she retired from a distinguished career, a friend called to say she'd put Connie's name, "...in for something." Something was a bi-partisan commission for Afghan women, and the State Department was looking for a business representative. Connie was inspired.

It took some stops and starts, but eventually it was clear that they should capitalize on the Afghan women's incredible rug weaving skills, which just happens to be the only culturally acceptable paid work for women there, and target a socially-conscience consumer market. ARZU Studio Hope was born.

Duckworth talks about the challenges, successes, and flat-out serendipity surrounding this wonderful organization, on ICOSA's Driving Force Radio program.

You can listen to the podcast, linked above -or- watch our video version in two parts.

You'll also find Jan Mazotti's interview with Connie Duckworth in the next issue of ICOSA Magazine (Page 86)

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We hope you are inspired by this incredible story. And if you're in the market for custom rugs for your home or business or corporation, please visit arzustudiohope.org

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