My time in India has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic and professional journey. The biggest lesson I learned was about the process of being a craftswoman — how much patience, skill, and deep expertise it requires. Every step in their work reflects generations of knowledge, whether it’s about the properties of natural fibers, the rhythm of weaving, or the sustainable ways of sourcing from the forest.
Seeing this artistry up close reshaped my understanding of what expertise looks like. These women are not just artisans producing goods for a market; they are keepers of ecological knowledge and cultural heritage. Their work is a living archive of resilience, creativity, and survival.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to learn from them — not only about craft but about life, community, and sustainability. Their willingness to share their processes and stories with me is something I will carry with me long after this project ends.
Questions I Carry Forward
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How can policy better recognize and value traditional knowledge systems, instead of sidelining them?
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What would development look like if it were built with tribal communities rather than for them?
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How can the global market support these artisans without forcing them to compromise their traditions and identities?
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What role can young scholars like me play in amplifying the voices of craftswomen while avoiding the trap of speaking over them?