Empowerment Strategy for Acehnese Embroidery Craftswomen Through Creative Economic Activities in North Aceh Regency

Abstract

The empowerment program must facilitate an increase in the capacity of Acehnese embroidery craft entrepreneurs, thereby enabling Acehnese women embroidery craftsmen to engage in business activities with greater autonomy and efficacy. It is essential that embroidery craftspeople demonstrate high creativity in creating products that align with market demands while maintaining the distinct regional characteristics of Acehnese embroidery motifs. However, many embroidery craftspeople have not yet achieved this level of creativity. The objective of this research is to develop an effective empowerment strategy for women Acehnese embroidery craftsmen in North Aceh Regency. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, comprising in-depth interviews and an examination of the strategies deployed in the program to empower women embroidery craftsmen in Aceh through a creative economy program implemented by the Department of Trade, Industry, Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises of North Aceh Regency. The data was subjected to an analysis employing the SWOT method. The research was conducted in North Aceh Regency, with in-depth interviews conducted at the Office of Trade, Industry, Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises of North Aceh Regency, with the department head and Acehnese embroidery craftsmen. The findings of the research indicate that the strategy for empowering women Acehnese embroidery craftsmen in North Aceh Regency through the creative economy necessitates the provision of support in the form of skills enhancement, marketing access, capital assistance, and the establishment of partnerships with various stakeholders. An integrated approach between the government, private sector, and local communities is essential for empowering women craftsmen to achieve economic independence and contribute to the preservation of Acehnese culture through the art of embroidery