On April 16th, Roots for Peace celebrated the successful completion of their ‘National Sockknitting’ project within Rootsmade initiative while simultaneously celebrating the newly launched Digital Hub dedicated to the further personal and professional development of Nagorno-Karabakh refugees. Thanks to the generous support of HP, YMCA Artsakh and Artsakh Artisans Union each received 14 laptops marking an exciting transition to digital empowerment.
The idea of the sockknitting program originated from the Hadrut Creative Center after discussions around traditional costumes. Despite the challenging technique of the craft, each of the 18 participants completed two pairs of socks during the two-month program, with some handcrafted items sent to program sponsors.
“This program allows us not only to preserve this craft but to pass it on to the next generations. We cannot allow our national culture to disappear,” emphasized Gohar Ohanyan, the Roots & Next Foundation representative.
Participants were so enthusiastic that they organized additional sessions outside regular hours to continue knitting. The course involved female participants of different ages providing an opportunity to dive deeper into the neglected craft. This marks the third collaborative program between the organizations, with the primary goal of providing each participant with a source of income.
During the certificate ceremony, one participant expressed: “I’m very happy that the organization is helping us maintain and develop our Artsakh heritage. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to revive this aspect of Artsakh culture.”
The traditional sock patterns, known as “shatal,” feature detailed designs. Some include bird motifs (bird-shaped shatals), while the main patterns incorporate carpet designs originally created in Hadrut.
Through the partnership with HP Hope Program, beneficiaries will have resources for personal and professional development courses, certified training programs, and technical education in English. With the aim to create more inclusive opportunities by equipping vulnerable communities with technological tools and knowledge, the cooperation with HP will build pathways for beneficiaries to fully participate in our increasingly digital world.
“This program has increased our resilience during these difficult times. Together, we are trying to preserve Artsakh’s cultural heritage and maintain connection to our roots,” noted Vardan Hambardzumyan, YMCA Europe Executive Secretary.
The Artsakh Artisans Union’s next initiative will focus on embroidered textile works. The instructor, Nadezhda, presented the first embroidered tablecloth to Gohar Ohanyan as a gift. These works will gradually be compiled into a guidebook for future artisans.
The event concluded with touching words from a participant from Nagorno-Karabakh: “It’s important that we live, but it’s much more important that others give us reason to live.”
Through this transition from traditional crafts to digital tools, Roots for Peace continues to empower communities while honoring cultural heritage – creating pathways for sustainable development and preserving invaluable traditions.
The National Sockknitting event was covered by national television of Armenia. The full video is available here.
