New enterprise by women and for women

New sewing workshop launched in Chimbay district of Karakalpakstan on May 11, 2011 created 15 additional workplaces for unemployed young women, thus, contributing to the wellbeing of their families and positively impacting on improvement of living standards in the region. The establishment of the new sewing enterprise came true due to the willingness and initiative of four women supported by the UNDP “Area Based Development” Project.

Maryash Najimova, a leader of the initiative group and from now a head of the enterprise “Elonora – Araylim” shares, “…you have to believe in yourself. That's the secret of success”. It was her first experience to apply for a grant to the development project and to get outside funding support for business development. Eventually, their efforts and strong believe made this dream feasible.

ABD project provided 15 sewing machines and auxiliary equipment for total amount of 13.3 mln. UZS, whereas other inputs like raw materials, premise, furniture, public services were covered by the enterprise. In result of UNDP contribution, the “Elonora-Araylim” enterprise could expand product line and its quality. According to businesswomen, by the end of this year, they plan to sell production for the total amount of 75 mln. UZS, as well as employ additional 10 girls, the facts, serving as an indicator of further financial sustainability and development.