About the Nahid Foundation
In 2004, Janny Beekman visited Afghanistan. After many discussions both with men and women, she was convinced that a shelter for women was not an unnecessary luxury. Above all , this was a request by highly educated women. In an investigation in November 2005, it appeared that the Minister for Women's Affairs, a woman, also supported the idea.The Nahid Foundation was established on 17 December, 2004.Two women, originally from Afghanistan and now living in the Netherlands, also sat on the board.They had a very important role in the shaping and the organisation of the home, because this must fit into the Afghan culture.
Who was Nahid?
During the Russian occupation, when the Russians wanted to poison the drinking water, Nahid, aged 18 , organised a peaceful demonstration by women and children. During their march through Kabul, the Russian soldiers fire mercilessly on the crowd. Many people were killed, including Nahid. We were very impressed by this non-violent demonstration by women and children.
Future Plans
If a woman wishes to make use of her rights, she must be able to lead an independent life. This means she must be able to earn her own living. As well as learning to read and write, several women in the home are also following a sewing course. When they have completed the course, they will receive a sewing machine so that they can set up their own small business. Their produce must be made for special orders, because there are enough dressmakers in Afghanistan. Nearly all women can embroider beautifully. We brought several examples of their work to the Netherlands, in order to establish a market for their work. It is pure handicraft..
We have also investigated the possibility of starting a bakery - not a traditional small bakery - but using large bread machines in a hygienic environment. We are also considering setting up a catering business and a launderette. All these small businesses will fall under the umbrella organisation of the Nahid Foundation in Kabul. The aim of the Foundation is to find work for all women who need it. As many functions as possible will be carried out by women. Unfortunately, it is not possible to work entirely without men. For this reason, a man is employed in preliminary activities. He works together with Hamida, a Dutch-Afghan woman, who has returned to Kabul because "she wants to something for Afghan women.
Women with sufficient income will be able to leave the shelter and rent their own home. This will leave room for new women whom the organisation can help in setting up an independent life
