Hi, my name is Aline and I am the founder of Aghavni Threads, a small community initiative in Montreal that offers free hand embroidery circles for women healing from domestic abuse, and daughters who grew up around it.

I grew up witnessing domestic abuse, and that inspired me to create something that could support women who have lived through similar challenges. That is how Aghavni Threads began.

The name Aghavni comes from my mother. In Armenian, it means dove, a symbol of hope, resilience, and freedom. These are qualities many women slowly rediscover after trauma.

When women are experiencing domestic abuse, they are focused on surviving and keeping themselves and their children safe. After the crisis has passed, many still carry emotional pain but may not have access to gentle, supportive spaces to heal. Aghavni Threads provides that space, a calm, welcoming environment where women can reconnect with themselves and with a community of other women who understand and have experienced similar challenges.

Since October, I have been offering small embroidery circles where women sit together in a calm, quiet room and work with their hands. The groups are small and intimate, so everyone feels safe and supported. Some women talk about their experiences while stitching, while others focus quietly on their embroidery until they feel ready to share.

Hand embroidery is especially helpful for healing because it allows women to focus on their hands and the process of creating, which can be calming and grounding. It helps reduce anxiety, encourages mindfulness, and gives women a sense of control and accomplishment. The act of creating something beautiful helps women rebuild confidence and feel proud of themselves.

The circles also create a sense of community. Women encourage each other, listen, and celebrate each other’s strength. Many return week after week because they feel comforted, peaceful, grounded, understood, and supported.

I was fortunate that DMC donated some threads and materials to help start the workshops. I am now running low on supplies and raising $500 to buy threads, hoops, needles, fabric, and other materials so the circles can continue to be offered for free.

Every contribution will help keep these circles alive, providing a safe, creative, and supportive space where women can heal after the crisis, connect with others, and rebuild their confidence.

Thank you for supporting Aghavni Threads and helping women reclaim hope, creativity, and strength.