We recently had the chance to connect with Dr. Janette Habashi and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Janette, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
These days, I wake up and go straight into meetings, and I always make time to connect with our team in the West Bank to see how everyone is doing and how the work is progressing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dr. Janette Habashi, the founder of Darzah. I’m an educational psychologist from Jerusalem, and my work has always been rooted in supporting women and communities in Palestine. I started Darzah to help create sustainable economic opportunities for women artisans in the West Bank while celebrating and preserving our traditional tatreez embroidery. I also founded Zeki Learning, an initiative focused on early childhood education through handmade educational materials. Through both projects, my mission is to uplift local women, honor our heritage, and share the beauty of Palestinian craftsmanship with the world.
Darzah is a fair-trade fashion brand dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Palestinian embroidery, known as tatreez. Each Darzah product is handcrafted by talented women artisans in the West Bank, blending traditional artistry with contemporary design.
Rooted in ethical production and cultural storytelling, Darzah’s mission goes beyond fashion—it’s about empowerment and sustainability. By providing fair wages, skill development, and dignified employment opportunities, Darzah helps create meaningful economic opportunities for Palestinian women while keeping centuries-old embroidery traditions alive.
From intricately embroidered shoes and bags to elegant home décor pieces, every Darzah creation tells a story of resilience, heritage, and craftsmanship.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I saw our first group of women artisans receive fair wages for their embroidery work. In that moment, I realized that Darzah could truly transform lives—empowering women through their own heritage and craft.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Trust your vision. The path won’t always be clear, but every challenge will shape something meaningful—keep believing in the power of your purpose.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to creating lasting opportunities for Palestinian women through their art. No matter how long it takes, I want Darzah to keep growing as a space where their embroidery and stories are valued around the world.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I understand that preserving culture and creating economic opportunity can go hand in hand. Many people think heritage is just history, but I’ve seen how it can be a living, powerful way to empower women and build communities.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Darzah.org
- Instagram: @darzahdesigns
- Linkedin: Darzah
- Facebook: Darzah
- Youtube: @darzah3858
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
