February 6, 2025
News
In a welcoming home in Bartella, Iraq, 26-year-old Massara carefully crafts traditional Iraqi jewellery and handbags, bead by bead. Like many in her community, Massara’s life was disrupted by the ISIS invasion, forcing her to flee to Erbil. Yet, her determination to support her family and preserve her heritage brought her back to Bartella, where she has built a successful handmade goods business with the help of Caritas Czech Republic.
A way to support herself and her family
Massara grew up in Bartella, a majority Christian town in Iraq. When ISIS swept through the region, she was forced to leave her home and relocate to Erbil. After the liberation of Bartella, she returned, determined to rebuild her life. Two and a half years ago, she began crafting jewellery and handbags from her home. “I prepare everything by hand,” she says. “This work suits me because I can do it at home with my family.” Additionally, Massara uses the monthly income from her business to support the four members of her family.
Massara’s business took a significant step forward when she received support from Caritas Czech Republic. Before the grant, her work was limited to small, simple projects. “After receiving the grant, I bought sewing machines and storage boxes, which helped me expand my work,” she explains.
She also participated in Caritas Czech Republic’s business training, where she learned essential skills like marketing and customer engagement. “I learned how to promote my work and understand what customers want,” she says. These skills have been crucial in helping her grow her business and reach a wider audience.
Crafting a future, one stitch at a time
Massara’s dedication to her craft is evident in the time she invests in each piece. A single bag can take anywhere from four hours to several days to complete, depending on its size and complexity. Her favourite projects are the traditional “subhah” and women’s bags, which she finds both challenging and rewarding.
Today, Massara sells her products at local festivals and through her Instagram page, where she receives orders from customers near and far. Social media has become a vital tool for her business, allowing her to connect with clients and showcase her work.
Looking ahead, Massara has ambitious plans. “I want to open a small shop or factory,” she says. “Maybe I’ll hire people to work with me and supervise them.” She envisions expanding her business to include handmade jewellery and cosmetics, creating more opportunities for herself and her community.
Massara’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. “I couldn’t have done it alone,” she acknowledges. “Caritas Czech Republic provided the funds and guidance I needed to push my project forward.”
Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq
Massara’s story reflects the experiences of many in Iraq who have rebuilt their lives after conflict. Organisations like Caritas Czech Republic play a vital role in empowering individuals to regain their independence. Since 2015, Caritas has provided training and financial grants to help people like Massara start their own businesses.
“There are many people who don’t have the means to show what they can do,” she says. “I want to help others achieve their dreams, just as I have.”
Through her artistry and determination, Massara Basim Matti is not only preserving Iraqi traditions but also building a brighter future for herself and her community.
