We made a promise to the Iraqi women in our program. We promised to train them to make and sell candles, and two years later, we’ve completed our first shipment.
Despite obstacles along the way, such as delayed shipments and complex ordering processes, we remained focused on keeping our promise. Through this enterprise, our candle-makers and entrepreneurs are earning livelihoods to support their families.
Candle production officially began January 10th when our candle-making trainers produced 168 candles to fulfill the first order. They were finally been able to apply their skills and knowledge in real production. Now they’re learning how to adapt to all the circumstances that can affect the quality of a candle. This on-the-job training is essential as they continue to develop their craft.
Production cycles are complicated, and our entrepreneurs are also learning how to track and account for materials, how to keep the books, and how to plan their work days around the orders we receive. To date, we’ve been able to make and ship 300 candles for the Akkadian Collection.
In addition, thirty women have received their toolkits that will enable them to produce candles from home. No matter where candle production takes place, at home or in our facility, all program participants strive to produce candles of the highest quality.
We’re aware that building this business is not an easy path to take given Iraq’s comprised economy, but we believe that one day it will pay off. We’re keeping our promise.
“This program makes much more sense than any previous ones. We feel that we’re not left behind after being trained, as had happened before with other programs.”
Hayam, Candle-Maker and Trainer