In a world where it is important not only to preserve traditions but also to create new opportunities for adults, especially women from socially vulnerable groups, craft courses become a true window into the future. One such course, “Textile Design of Products and Accessories in Kuna Mola Techniques,” is being implemented by ADRA Kyrgyzstan with the support of DVV International.
Kuna Molas represent a unique patchwork sewing technique originating from the culture of the small Kuna tribe (Panama, Colombia), where women create intricate designs by cutting through up to eight layers of fabric and stitching them together with hidden seams. This method impresses not only with its beauty but also with its ability to develop patience, focus, and creative thinking.
For elderly women in Bishkek, this course has become an opportunity not only to master a craft for additional income but also a way to engage in lifelong learning, discover a new culture, and broaden their horizons. Each class turns into a space for exchange and support, where women, often returning to learning after a long break, create items with their own hands and see the results of their work.
Participants note that learning the mola technique helps them regain confidence, feel their own significance, and become role models for their children and grandchildren. This course has become a timely response to the need for practical and inspiring adult education, allowing participants to create modern products using elements of ancient cultures while finding their place in society.
This autumn, on October 1, a collection of clothing and accessories made using the Kuna mola technique is planned to be presented at the autumn fair in Bishkek. For many participants, this will be the first public showcase of their work and an important step towards new opportunities.
The course demonstrates that adult learning can be not only useful but also engaging, connecting generations and cultures, preserving traditions, and opening pathways to new sources of income and personal growth.