A beautiful solution to a life-long challenge in Afghanistan. How to provide sustainable income to Afghan women with few skills and fewer options. Enter Connie Duckworth.

Shortly after she retired from a distinguished career, a friend called Connie to say she’d put her name, “…in for something.” Something was a bi-partisan commission for Afghan women, and the State Department was looking for a business representative. Connie was inspired.

It took some stops and starts, but eventually it was clear that they should capitalize on the Afghan women’s incredible rug weaving skills, which just happens to be the only culturally acceptable paid work for women there, and target a socially-conscience consumer market. ARZU Studio Hope was born.

Duckworth talks about the challenges, successes, and flat-out serendipity surrounding this wonderful organization, on this special repeat presentation of Connect & Collaborate with ICOSA.

Listen to the entire Connect & Collaborate program this Saturday at 10:00 AM on KNUS 710 – or download our podcast – you’ll find it at the top of this article.

You’ll also find Jan Mazotti’s interview with Connie Duckworth in the Winter 2012 issue of ICOSA Magazine (V0lume 4 Issue 4 /Page 86)

Learn more about Arzu Studio Hope and the beautiful work they do - visit their website at www.ArzuStudioHope.org where you can order beautiful rugs for your home or business with confidence that your money is doing good.