Stitching New Beginnings: Afghan and Ethiopian Women Graduate from Alexandria Sewing Program
Fairlington United Methodist Church Holds Special Graduation Ceremony
ALEXANDRIA, VA-This morning (May 29), Fairlington United Methodist Church (3900 King St.) held a special graduation ceremony to honor the accomplishments of women immigrants from Afghanistan and Ethiopia. The event was organized by a dedicated husband-and-wife team from Afghanistan, with support from Fairlington UMC’s Janine Howard, the lead pastor, members of Christ Church in Old Town Alexandria, and St. Mary’s Arlington. The graduates received certificates and a new sewing machine as a reward for their achievements in a sewing program founded by Forozan Mirwais and her husband, Mirwais.
Forozan, who established a sewing business in Afghanistan before relocating to this country, spoke about refugees’ challenges. “As new refugees, we faced and are still facing many financial challenges. Nevertheless, we are working hard to learn the system and acquire new skills to improve our kids’ futures,” she shared.
Today’s ceremony culminated in a heartfelt celebration as the twelve women, some with small children in tow, received their well-deserved certificates. The sense of community and encouragement among all in attendance reinforced the nonprofit sewing school’s mission to continue empowering and uplifting immigrant women by offering free sewing classes.
Three years ago dutring the pandemic, Forozan started making face masks to meet the growing demand during the COVID-19 crisis. With support from NOVA Friends of Refugees and its co-founder, Kenn Speicher, the couple secured fabric and a sewing machine and sold masks to help pay for their rent and food.
Realizing the potential of her sewing skills, Forozan decided to share her knowledge with other immigrant women. She described her aspiration to “give back” to those who may feel isolated or face similar economic challenges in their new lives. “Seeing women come to classes and establishing relationships is just as important—if not more important—than acquiring sewing skills,” Howard remarked, highlighting the connections made among the women who attended the classes.
Looking ahead, Forozan announced that a new class titled “Learn to Sew with Forozan” will begin on June 15 at Fairlington Union Methodist Church with seven to eight spots available for interested women immigrants. In conjunction with her sewing business, which she operates from home, Forozan and Mirwais are also exploring more entrepreneurial ventures, including the development of a for-profit cooking school and catering business focusing on Afghan cuisine.
The couple’s endeavors symbolize the resilience and determination of immigrant communities. Their efforts demonstrate how support and education can foster economic stability, a more secure financial future, and a sense of community. As Forozan and Mirwais continue to pursue their dreams, they embody the spirit of hope and perseverance that thrives within Alexandria’s diverse immigrant communities.
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