From direct aid to a social enterprise
Since 2002, SHKIZH has run dozens of projects — some short-term, some still running today. And we always welcome new ideas.
Have a project idea? We welcome the collaboration
Organisations, funders, businesses or individuals — if you think a new project could help the families or women of Kukës, get in touch.
Support for families in need
Qualification-Employment with MADA
Training and employment with the Association of Working Invalids in rural Kukës villages — natural resource management, medicinal and aromatic plants; 40 work invalids qualified.
Health Community Awareness
With Health Center No. 7 Laprakë: family planning, breastfeeding, elder and chronic-illness care, and health-card awareness.
Courses for Orphans & Children in Need
In the Kombinat area of Tirana, funded by local businesses — educational and social support for orphaned children and families in extreme poverty.
World Food Programme
"Qualification-Employment-Food": support for women, families in extreme poverty and children, linking food aid with vocational training.
Artizanal, aka ArtZan and women's empowerment
Cultural Heritage of Generations
With the Ministry of Culture and the Centre for Competitiveness Promotion: reviving the Kukës "çergë," preserving tradition while opening a path toward tourism.
The Birth of Artizanal, aka ArtZan
Market research, production trials and consultation with veteran Kukës weavers led to founding the social enterprise, officially recognised by the state in 2019.
"Folk Fair" — Tirana, Pezë, Krrabë
An annual fair creating employment opportunities for women and girls keeping the craft alive, and connecting them with fellow local artisans.
Creative Europe Beyond the EU
A project idea for a documentary on the development and revival of Kukës craftsmanship, alongside new international fairs.
Albanian culture, beyond the borders
Malmö Festival
With AKF-Tirana and support from Malmö Municipality, SHKIZH promotes Albanian culture through the craft and handwork of female heads of household from Kukës.
Tirana Castle
With the Ministry of Culture and Tirana Municipality: an exhibition and live concert promoting and preserving cultural heritage through the loom.
We want to keep growing our impact
If you'd like to fund, partner on, or propose a new project with SHKIZH, write to us today.