September 29, 2025
News
In the small town of Karamles in northern Iraq, the sharp clang of hammer on metal rings out from a modest blacksmith workshop. Inside, 41-year-old Nassim works with practiced ease, bending iron into shape, welding railings, and assembling doors that will protect homes and shops across the region. Thanks to support from Caritas Czech Republic, what started as a passion two decades ago has also become Nassim’s livelihood.
A craft rooted in passion
Nassim began blacksmithing in 2004, shortly after leaving the Iraqi army. The country was going through dark times, but Nassim saw an opportunity to build something lasting by using fire, steel, and his own hands. “I liked this job very much from the beginning,” he says. “I started small, but I became a professional with time.” Over the years, he mastered the craft through self-teaching and practice, eventually becoming known for his skill in making doors, which is his favourite item to create.
He works mainly alone, occasionally joined by his son or a few hired hands when orders are large. “When I make something myself, from scratch, I feel proud,” Nassim says. “I don’t like things that are ready-made. I want to create something original.”
Support from Caritas Czech Republic that sparked growth
Like many others in Iraq’s Ninewa Plains, Nassim faced challenges rebuilding his livelihood after conflict and displacement. But with support from Caritas Czech Republic, he was able to invest in his business in a meaningful way. Through a livelihood's initiative, Nassim received business management training and a small grant.
“The training helped me understand how to run my workshop better,” he explains. “And with the grant, I bought a new machine, it’s the one above us here in the workshop. It helps me increase both the quantity and quality of what I produce.”
The improved efficiency has allowed Nassim to take on more orders and expand his offerings, all while staying in his hometown. “I’ve always lived in Karamles. Even during displacement, when I worked in Erbil for a Canadian company at the airport, I always knew I would come back,” he says.
A vision for the future
Today, Nassim dreams of opening a larger workshop to grow his business further. But he knows the local market has its limits as many customers prefer mass-produced items over handcrafted ones. Still, Nassim remains committed to his work. “The area makes it hard to expand, but I want to create something lasting,” he says.
He is not only working for himself, but for his family which consists of his wife, two sons, and a daughter. And finally, for the community he has always called home.
Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq
Caritas Czech Republic strengthened economic and social inclusion in Iraq through vocational training, small grants, and support for entrepreneurship. In partnership with Agenzia Italiana per la Cooperazione allo Sviluppo and Condivisione fra i Popoli, we supported individuals like Nassim to turn their skills into sustainable futures.
Nassim’s story is a testament to what can be built with dedication, opportunity, and the right support. And with your support, we can continue forging futures for others like him.
