Sewing class for Asmat-mothers: meet Maria

Maria, now 20 years old, married at a young age. For many young girls, self-protection is an important reason to get engaged early. If a young girl does not yet have a husband, she is at risk of becoming a victim of sexual violence and/or abuse. Seeking protection from an (older) spouse is sometimes the only solution. Maria follows the sewing class, with consent of her husband, and does not miss a lesson. According to the trainer, Maria is a student with a lot of potential, who will qualify for her own business after the course.

This story is part of a series that introduces you to six Asmat women who take a sewing class in Merauke. The initiator is Edo Mote, who has set up various projects for the Asmat community in deprived areas with his foundation Papua Mandiri 2050.

Contribute to this project

SEWING CLASS FOR ASMAT-MOTHERS

Edo Mote is no stranger to Hapin. In the past he received a scholarship and since then we have been supporting Edo with various projects for the Asmat community in Merauke.

SEWING CLASS FOR ASMAT-MOTHERS: MEET MAMA KATARINA

Mama Katarina is the oldest woman in the sewing class. She is part of the first generation of Asmatters who moved to Merauke in the ‘80s, looking for work and a better future.

SEWING CLASS FOR ASMAT-MOTHERS: MEET TEDORA

Tedora is a young and energetic woman. She and her husband are the community’s pioneers in money management.

SEWING CLASS FOR ASMAT-MOTHERS: MEET MAMA YOSEFA

Unfortunately, violence against women is a common problem in Papua. This has been the reason for mama Yosefa to leave the Asmaro neighborhood and live with her family further down the city.

SEWING CLASS FOR ASMAT-MOTHERS: MEET MAMA KORNELIA

You will rarely see mama Kornelia (photo: left) without a smile on her face. This cheerful and intelligent woman brings a lot of energy in the sewing class group.