The Ihenanas Cooperative for Traditional Crafts was founded in 2018, becoming the first cooperative in our region — the rural commune of Azouia Nahliya. It was established by a remarkable woman, the late Fatima Draz, who, despite not knowing how to read or even write her own name, was determined to make a difference.

Through sheer determination and resilience, she overcame illiteracy and unemployment, and began empowering the women of our community — teaching them basic literacy and the traditional art of Azzta (Amazigh weaving).

Until her passing in 2024 due to a tragic car accident, Fatima dedicated her life to this mission. She was a mother of two daughters and a true pioneer.

Now, as her brother and the manager of the Ihenanas Cooperative, I am honored to continue the work she began — expanding our space, adding new equipment, and working toward creating more job opportunities for the women of our region and driving innovation in our craft.

Her legacy lives on in every thread we weave.