Candle Making Workshop

Fellow Name:

Manar Ouaritni

Country:

Morocco

Description

IDG Goal: Goal 5 – Protection of Women’s Dignity and Rights

In Morocco, women’s financial independence remains a pressing issue, and this hands-on candle-making workshop sought to tackle it directly by equipping women with a practical, income-generating skill. Organised in collaboration with local women’s cooperative Mon Cactus, the workshop welcomed 5 female participants of mixed ages, guiding them through the process of producing handmade and perfumed candles from start to finish. Upon completing the practical component, participants were also provided with a full list of local suppliers so they could begin their own businesses, with continued monitoring and support offered after the workshop. Now in its third edition within the community, the activity has proven to be consistently well-received across all age groups, and plans are underway to expand it to other cities including Rabat and Casablanca.

Follow up Activity

Earlier in the same year, a first edition of the candle-making workshop was held in Morocco in March 2023, also in collaboration with the Mon Cactus women’s cooperative, this time reaching 7 female participants. Rooted in the same mission of contributing to women’s financial independence, the workshop equipped participants with the skills to produce handmade and perfumed candles independently, while also connecting them with local suppliers to support them in launching income-generating activities of their own. As with subsequent editions, the activity received perfect scores across all feedback categories and was described as a success across all age groups, with ongoing support provided to participants after the session concluded.

Partners

Mon Cactus (local women’s cooperative)