"My speech impairment has never stopped me from expressing myself" – Zahra's story

Zahra was born with a speech impairment into a family with limited literacy, leaving her longing for a way to connect with the world around her. Without words to express her thoughts and emotions, she turned to drawing and embroidery, discovering a new form of communication through art. For reasons she couldn’t fully articulate, the delicate craft of embroidering on cushions became her refuge—a space where she could weave her feelings into vibrant colours and intricate patterns. With every thread, she built her own language, one that spoke louder than words ever could.

As she grew older and learned to read and write, Zahra gained the tools to express herself in more conventional ways. But her love for embroidery remained steadfast. It wasn’t just a hobby; it was her truest form of expression, a medium through which she could pour out her heart and share her inner world. Each piece she created became a testament to her journey, her resilience, and her ability to find beauty in adversity.

Today, Zahra’s work is more than just embroidery—it’s a living narrative of her life. Each cushion she stitches tells a story, rich with the emotions she has carried and the challenges she has overcome. Her creations invite us to feel the depth of her humanity, woven delicately into every thread. Through her art, Zahra has not only found her voice but also a way to inspire others with the power of persistence, creativity, and the beauty of unspoken emotions.