Since childhood, Aziza has tried her hand at various forms of creativity: she engaged in bead weaving and drawing. However, it was crocheting that truly became her calling. According to her, crocheting attracted her with the ability to create items that last a long time — they cannot be erased or lost like a drawing or sketch. Moreover, a crochet hook can always be taken along, making the process especially convenient.
Aziza took her first steps in crocheting back in the 6th grade during technology classes. At that time, she found the activity difficult and uninteresting, and her interest did not continue. However, four years later, she decided to try again — and this time everything turned out differently. A significant role in this was played by her English teacher.
“My English teacher encouraged me to start crocheting. I attend extra English classes. Our teacher created a volunteer initiative group. For several years now, we have been working with children with autism and children in difficult life situations from Pristan-Przhevalsk and the city of Karakol,” Aziza shared.
For the third consecutive year, volunteers participate in fairs where they sell baked goods and crocheted toys, and the proceeds are directed to charity — including gifts for children from Pristan-Przhevalsk. It was then that Aziza decided to contribute and crochet toys for the fair. From that moment on, crocheting became not just a hobby for her, but a pursuit with deep meaning. The girl’s first work was a cat keychain. “My first work was a cat keychain. While learning to crochet it, I mastered the basics of crocheting. Then I was able to crochet a penguin — that was my second work, the largest and my favorite,” she says.
If at first it took almost a month to make one toy, today Aziza can complete one in a week, and sometimes even in a day — it all depends on the complexity of the item.
She draws ideas for her works from her favorite movies and online platforms. However, for her, not only the form is important, but also her internal state while working. “For me, the meaning of crocheting lies in tranquility and harmony. It’s a great way to relax after a hard day and slow down in our fast-paced world,” Aziza shared.
The main support for her passion comes from her parents and friends. She expresses special gratitude to her teacher, who, despite evenings and weekends, helped her understand the patterns and explained difficult moments. Thanks to this support, Aziza was able to crochet her largest toy and present it at the fair.
She learned to crochet on her own — through master classes on the internet. This year, Aziza participated in a New Year’s fair for the first time, where she was able to sell her work. For her, this became an important achievement: in just two months, she went from complete ignorance of the basics to a finished product that found its buyer.
Aziza does not plan to tie her future to handicrafts yet — crocheting remains her favorite hobby. However, she has a dream — to conduct a master class for children so that they can also create their desired toy. In the near future, she wants to learn to crochet not only toys but also clothing.
In addition to creativity, skiing occupies an important place in Aziza's life. She has been seriously engaged in it for five years. “I really love skiing and have been doing it for five years. This sport has taught me patience: results do not come immediately, but through regular training. I apply the same principle in crocheting,” she shared.
To her peers, Aziza advises not to be afraid of mistakes. “The first work may not be perfect, but with each time it will get better,” she said.
