WEAVING THAT CHANGES LIVES

In Tešica, a small village near Aleksinac, women have been the invisible heroines of everyday life for decades. Their work, which starts before dawn and ends late at night, often remains unrecognized and unacknowledged in the community. “Women in Tešica work a lot, but they are not paid for it, unlike men. In addition to taking care of the household and all family members, they also engage in agriculture and livestock farming alongside men,” says Slavica Vukadinović, president of the “Super Women” association, opening the conversation about the fight for economic independence and a better position for women in society.

Slavica adds that women, in addition to all their household and field duties, gladly devote time to traditional crafts such as knitting, embroidery, and various handcrafts. These are perhaps the only moments when they find peace and time for themselves—moments when they are alone with their thoughts. “Our idea was to provide them with the opportunity to learn new ‘old’ skills, like weaving, that would empower them and give them a chance to take at least one step closer to economic independence. But we also wanted to create a space for connection, socializing, and the kind of support only women can give each other,” explains Slavica, emphasizing that support from the Trag Foundation through the “Active Communities” program enabled about ten women of different generations to connect and attend workshops in the traditional weaving technique.

All workshop participants agree that, besides acquiring new skills, they also regained a sense of confidence and belief that they can make changes in their lives. Their steps may be small, but, as they say, they are sure and determined.

For many participants, the first encounter with a loom was both a challenge and the beginning of a personal transformation. “The first time I sat at the loom, I knew absolutely nothing. Neither what to do nor how to do it. However, as I went through the entire weaving training, I realized that these threads are not just ordinary threads, but perhaps even the threads of life. Through our weaving, our thoughts, feelings, joy, love, sorrow… all of that is woven into the threads,” shared Slađana Stojković, a member of the association, emphasizing that after completing the course, she bought a loom so she could weave daily and also allow other women in her community to try the craft and find their own peace.

For many women, the workshops became a space for relaxation, a break from everyday life, and a place where they could finally think about themselves. “The work process itself is a kind of meditation. Relaxation, literally entering a completely new world. No problems, no thinking, no racing thoughts, no worries, nothing. Just the work, working with your hands, focusing on that,” says Nataša Jovčić, one of the “super women” who completed the basic weaving training.

Learning new skills and group support also boosted the participants’ economic confidence. “Two women, I now call them weavers, quickly bought looms and started their own small production,” says Slađana. Thus, the workshops moved beyond a hobby and became the beginning of small family entrepreneurial stories. “Our women mastered the weaving technique, became empowered, because in our village many women don’t work and depend on the male family members. So this project will be very beneficial for their future,” says workshop participant Slobodanka Pavković. Slađana nods in agreement, confirming that the demand for handmade crafts is growing.

Although weaving can provide additional income, the most valuable result of these gatherings is not the crafts themselves, but the connection between women.“Every thread, every weave, every fiber connects all of us women who are united. That gave me such strength, as if I could fly,” says Verica Todorović with a big smile., sa širokim osmehom kaže Verica Todorović.

Ultimately, the weaving process in Serbian tradition is not just the interlacing of threads to create fabric for clothing. The cloth made on the loom by women’s hands carries a much greater power and symbolism. “It’s also a kind of protection for the person it’s made for. A protective talisman. All the symbols we see, whether on the Pirot carpet or other weavings, are not just simple patterns. Each pattern is a symbol, and each symbol carries protective power,” adds Nataša, showing us different symbols and their meanings.“,

And just like that, every woven piece from Tešica carries with it a story of strength, perseverance, and solidarity among women. It carries a special power—the strength that inspires and is passed on day by day, growing and remaining—as an example that true change in a community comes from within, from the hands and hearts of ordinary, yet brave women.

TIPS FROM FIRST HAND:

It’s never too late to start something new or to fulfill your dreams. Every day brings a new opportunity for personal growth and development.Nikada nije kasno.

Nurture tradition. Tradition is rooted in values, wisdom, and strength that connect generations. By preserving what we have inherited, we open space for new creations and a richer future.

Revive traditional crafts. Handicrafts are not “granny stuff”—they are art and an economic opportunity. At the same time, by preserving traditional crafts, we preserve the identity, authenticity, and uniqueness of our community.