Al-AHSA: Several women here are ignoring traditional roles by becoming skilled carpenters making various products including chairs, wardrobes and chests.

Zahra Al-Najar, who is based in a workshop at the Center for Vocational Training here, said that she finds great satisfaction in doing work that has been dominated by men for so long.

She said training has been provided over the last five years by the Al-Ahsa Young Women’s Society at the King Abdullah Residential Complex. It was equipped with all carpentry tools.

Al-Najar said that she has not been intimidated by the power tools being used and has even taken a first aid course. “I find great pleasure in making wardrobes, seats, chests and other things. We provide all the furniture needed by a local kindergarten.”

“What makes me happier than anything else is to see the surprise on people’s faces when they look at what we’ve produced in such a professional manner,” she said.

Afrah Al-Mahdi said she joined the workshop after seeing an advertisement on drilling and engraving on wood with special machines. “I then joined the center and became a trained carpenter. I have been doing this for the past five years,” she said.

“Some people have criticized me but this is what gives me satisfaction. I plan to continue to improve my skills.



I am now producing chests that have been ordered by Saudi Aramco, which it wants to give as presents to retired employees,” she said.

Moudi Al-Hamad, manager and supervisor of the carpentry workshop, said that 150 young women are trained every year. Many have gone on to set up their own profitable businesses, she said.

Those who want to join must be over 18 and not suffer from asthma. Each person who successfully completes a course would get a certificate, she said.