In the heart of Kılıçlı village, Sinop, Turkey, a group of determined women are weaving a new future for themselves and their community. The Sinabeli Women’s Entrepreneurship Cooperative, established in the spring of 2023, is a testament to the power of women’s empowerment and sustainable development.
Led by Aylin Demirhan, the founding partner and chairwoman of the cooperative, the women of Kılıçlı village have transformed an abandoned school building into a vibrant workshop, where they create beautiful, hand-woven products using natural materials and traditional techniques.
Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their work. They use naturally dyed wool yarns, recycled cotton yarns, and surplus textile fabrics cut into strips for their rag weaving. Every product is hand-woven on traditional looms, ensuring that each piece is unique and tells a story of tradition and innovation.
The cooperative’s designs draw inspiration from traditional symbols and the rich cultural heritage of Sinop, as well as collaborations with artists and academics. By reviving the rug weaving technique, an old tradition in their village, they extend the lifespan of unused fabrics from factories and from the community.
“We aim to slow down migration from the village by providing the women working within our organization with additional or alternative employment opportunities,” says Demirhan. “We take care to use natural materials in our weaving, and we give new life to fabrics that would otherwise become waste.”
The Sinabeli Cooperative’s products are a testament to the women’s creativity and skill, featuring beautiful floor rugs, bags, throw pillow covers, placemats, poufs, belts, and wall hangings.
“For us, sustainability is not just a buzzword, it’s a way of life,” says Demirhan. “We believe that by reducing our environmental impact, we can create a better future for our children and our community.”
The cooperative’s sustainable practices are inspired by the traditional Turkish weaving techniques that have been passed down through generations. They are part of a larger movement towards sustainable fashion and women’s empowerment, and their work is a testament to the power of community and creativity.
Overall, the Sinabeli Women’s Entrepreneurship Cooperative is a powerful example of how women’s empowerment and sustainable development can go hand-in-hand, benefiting both the women involved and the broader community.
