Even though the teachers were very good, the theory lessons covered a wide range of topics that needed to be understood and learned. Haircut and hair colouring techniques, henna designs, knowledge of nails and skin types, the choice of products, the sanitisation. Every field requires an in-depth knowledge of the most suitable tools and materials. The skills we were required to master seemed to be never-ending.
The hands-on training has been fundamental in order to truly assimilate what we studied in class and become familiar with it. It also served the purpose of clearing up our doubts. We were divided into groups and cooperated with several beauty salons. There, among other things, we learned what it means to manage a beauty salon.
The most difficult part for me was hair bleaching and hair dyeing. They are difficult and delicate processes that if not done correctly may result in great damage. But as I became more and more familiar with this job, enthusiasm replaced difficulties. I could not even imagine how much satisfaction it would bring me. This job allowed me to continuously express my creativity.
I discovered I am very good at creating hairstyles and making henna tattoos. I would always come up with wonderful compositions and designs. Women bloomed once again under my care. They were beautiful, glowing, they came back to life. We felt like watching ourselves in the mirror again. The sadness and oppression, that since the Taliban’s return were our only companions, stopped torturing us and gave us back a glimpse of who we really are.
I put my heart and soul into this endeavour. I was well aware of the effort my relatives were making when I couldn’t contribute to the family budget. But it was worth it. All efforts soon began to pay off. I started working at home and after a short time, I gained a good number of clients. Since I didn’t have to cover salon expenses, I was able to keep affordable prices.
I was just starting to train other women so that they could have helped me, when the news of the ban came. It felt like a sword had pierced my soul. Rage and anguish left me almost breathless. I can’t understand what we did to deserve this relentless hostility. By persecuting us, they destroy our families and our children. In the name of what future? We all lose. I really hope to have the strength to start once again, but I often wonder where I can find the resources.
Nabila participated in the “Vocational Training, Soft Skills Development and Business Marketing Course” project organized by NOVE. The project was funded by the World Food Programme and concluded in 2022. To improve the living conditions of Afghan women and promote their socioeconomic independence, the project offered vocational training for those female professions that were still allowed. Vocational training was combined with soft skills and business courses. The 53% of women who completed the course found a job or managed to start a business on their own.