MARAWI CITY - In this material world that seems overwhelmed by hustle and bustle, compounded by an inevitable turmoil, it becomes simple to lose sight of the power of creativity, positivity, and tranquility.
However, in the heart of an Islamic community, several inspired peace champions are working tirelessly to cultivate these values and spread their message far and wide.Women weavers and dressmakers behind the Aretes Style exhibited their products that symbolized the lively and colorful culture of Maranaos. (Photo courtesy of MPOS-BARMM)
Handcrafting, including
weaving and dressmaking, has often been perceived as a sanative and alleviating
task. But for several individuals, it is more than just a hobby. It is a
wellspring of hope and a way to cultivate inner peace.
The best example is Jalalodin
Mustari, who paved the way for the foundation of the Aretes Style - products out of Langkit - a traditional decorative woven
materials handcrafted by displaced out-of-school youth in Marawi City.
Naturally born and raised as
a Maranao, Mustari looked back on the humble beginning of his endeavor which was
rooted in his realizations after the haunting five-month warfare in this city
in 2017.
He affirmed that while the
rehabilitation process is underway, a poignant reminder remains for the
affected locals, saying that they would always have a flashback to how their
populace was generalized as terrorists, thus barely enjoying some of the
fundamental human rights.
Nonetheless, this gloomy
scenario did not hold back Mustari even for a second. He became more motivated
to help address limited socio-economic opportunities; otherwise, this issue
would be a prime factor in drawing victims into unwanted coping mechanisms such
as illegal drugs and human trafficking.
Giving birth to a
socio-cultural enterprise, Mustari, and his Aretes Style unlocked the door of income
opportunities for worthy internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Viewing the historic siege
from the lens of optimism, he sensed the necessity to utilize the talent
bestowed upon him and the experiences he relished to create a picturesque
representation of the Meranaw and the Bangsamoro communities, depicting that
they are more than the battle, bullets, and conflict that the media
portrayed.
“I really believe in the
power of creativity, and in general, the creative industry in addressing
pressing issues, especially promoting and cultivating peace. It is a powerful
tool to touch hearts, minds, and souls,” he said.
The benevolence behind Aretes Style
For Mustari, Aretes Style is
a noble legacy that speaks of the narratives of their strive for peace and
corrects the misconception about them, from being extremists to artistic.
“This creates pieces which tell the story of our community, especially focusing
on peace, to show to the world that we are creative and not terrorists,” he said.
To date, some 15 local
weavers and 10 artisans make up the enterprise of Mustari, and most of them are
single mothers who are eased from their struggles after belonging to the
marginalized sector and left facing physical, economic, and psychological
barriers.
He named the project Omekulay
and shared that it was close to his heart as he saw mothers playing a
significant role in rehabilitation. Apart from this, Mustari takes
pride in his group, which opens the platform for dialogue while showcasing the
Meranaw culture featured through the langkit intricately woven in their
fabrics.
Uplifting lives
Since its inception, the
Aretes Style has been painted with bright remarks, specifically by the hopeful
citizens who benefited from its well-known goal of building rapport with the
founder.
Joh, a partner weaver in the
enterprise, described a priceless moment while working with Mustari. She
attested that the social entrepreneur served as a bridge for them to nurture
their skills, promote their products, and earn independently.
“It helped us a lot. It is
beneficial for myself, my children, and the entire family. This kind of venture
saved our lives,” she said.
And Tata, a partner
dressmaker, expressed similar sentiments. With this, she was grateful that she
encountered Mustari whom she treated as her own son, sibling, and mentor.
She explained that she is
receiving additional pay for producing various handiworks.
“He helped me as I sewed his
products like tote bags, veils, and jackets. Sometimes, he would even increase
my wage to help me and my children. A never-ending thanks to Sir Jal. Without
you, Tata’s Tailoring will never have an income,” she said
Sustainable peace
Aretes Style's crusade is
poised to continue its journey, overcoming obstacles with consistent
perseverance to achieve ultimate triumph. Mustari pledges steadfast advocacy
for sustainable peace by promoting social entrepreneurship, preserving culture,
and empowering the economy.
Alongside this assurance was
his call to strengthen the support system for the Bangsamoro creative
industries by amplifying their motivating account nationally and
internationally.
“Our collective efforts can
uplift our socio-economic status, which plays a vital role in peacebuilding.
Together, we can craft hope and peace,” said Mustari.
Reaping heartening fruits
from decent seeds, Mustari and his business partners' admirable act was honored
by the regional government through the Ministry of Public Order and Safety and
he was named the 2023 Bangsamoro Peace Champion. (Claire R. Gigje)
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