Silk Screen Handwoven Cotton Shawl from Ghana, "Collective Wisdom"

“My name is Charity Jobarteh. I was born in 1954 in Accra, Ghana. My friends describe me as a friendly, loyal and kind person.

“During my secondary school education, I was taught handicrafts in a vocational school. I loved working with my hands; I developed a passion for it. When I completed school, I trained as a seamstress and at needlework. Through this I developed an interest in colors and traditional decorations. My belief in myself helped me develop fast with the skills I acquired. Starting out on my own was quite challenging; full of hard work, but rewarding.

“I get my inspiration through imagination and from nature. The favorite thing about my art is when I come up with unique designs and am able to produce them perfectly.

“A difficult moment in my life was the unfortunate death of my husband. I encouraged myself to learn and become a hard-working entrepreneur, to take care of my family’s needs and to help positively impact other people.

“My dream is to set up an NGO to help create jobs for people in the arts and crafts sector. I hope to export some of my products to other countries. My plan is to have a larger organization and expand my horizons.”