Abdul Rahman’s hands tell a story of transformation. Once empty after losing everything in the crisis, they now skillfully shape wood into beautiful furniture and practical structures for his community.
At ESDR’s vocational training center, Abdul learned carpentry and construction skills that have become his pathway to dignity and independence. “Wood doesn’t judge where you come from,” he says, running his fingers along a smooth table surface he crafted. “It only responds to skill and care.”
Starting with basic tools and simple projects, Abdul quickly showed natural talent. His instructors were impressed by his precision and creativity. Within months, he was creating custom furniture pieces and helping construct community buildings.
Now, Abdul leads a small workshop where he teaches carpentry to other young men. “When I teach someone to use a saw or join two pieces of wood, I’m giving them more than a skill,” he explains. “I’m giving them the power to build their own future.”
His workshop has become a symbol of hope in the community, where the sound of hammers and saws represents progress and possibility. Abdul’s dream is to expand his workshop and create a furniture cooperative that can serve the broader region.
