Kuchinate (crochet in Tigrinya) is a collective of African asylum seeking women living in Tel Aviv, Israel. The women design and create crochet products for the home, such as baskets, poufs, and rugs. They also host crochet lessons, meals, and traditional Ethiopian and Eritrean coffee ceremonies.
Kuchinate is a psychosocial project aimed at empowering the most vulnerable asylum-seeking women - many are survivors of human trafficking, torture, and sexual abuse. The act of sitting together in a supportive, communal environment whilst making creations rooted in African culture is therapeutic and helps the women cope with their difficult realities. Through the Kuchinate collective, women can sell their wares, earn money, and interact with the public through artistic collaborations, basket and bracelet making workshops, and events.