Ibtikar

Founded in 2019 in Bethlehem, Palestine, Ibtikar is an NGO that offers numerous resources, provides social and entrepreneurial programs, engages community members through creative and economic opportunities, and much more.

Ibtikar’s Palestinian Doll Project is one of the many ways in which women in the community are able to gain substantial income as well as preserve Palestinian culture. Each doll is handmade and embroidered by a larger team of 48 women. Each doll is made to replicate traditional thobes and attire of Palestinian women in several villages across Palestine, bringing Palestinian traditions to younger generations. Not only does it exemplify resistance in the midst of occupation by preserving the rich Palestinian culture, but empowers women personally and financially.

Through MECA’s orders of the Ibtikar dolls, each of these incredible artisans has received meaningful income for their families. As most of these women are the main breadwinners in their family, this income has been transformative given the intense economic and political circumstances they are subjected to.