From an early age, Aziza showed interest in various forms of art, including beadwork and drawing. However, it was crocheting that became the activity in which she found her true calling. According to her, crocheting attracts her because it allows her to create durable items that cannot be lost, unlike sketches or drawings. Moreover, a crochet hook is easy to take along, making this activity particularly convenient.
Aziza's first attempts at crocheting occurred in the 6th grade during technology classes, but at that time, it seemed difficult and uninteresting to her. However, four years later, she decided to try again, and this time she was inspired by her English teacher.
“My English teacher encouraged me to crochet. I attend extra classes, and she organized a volunteer group. We have been working with children with autism and those in difficult situations from Pristan-Przhevalsk and Karakol for several years,” Aziza shared.
For the third consecutive year, volunteers participate in fairs where they sell baked goods and crocheted toys, with the proceeds going to charity, including gifts for children from Pristan-Przhevalsk. At that moment, Aziza decided to contribute by crocheting toys for the fair. From that point on, crocheting became not just a hobby for her, but a pursuit filled with deep meaning. Her first creation was a cat keychain. “My first item was a cat keychain. While mastering its crocheting, I learned the basics. Then I crocheted a penguin — that was my second work, the largest and my favorite,” she recounts.
If it used to take her almost a month to make one toy, now Aziza manages to complete it in just a week, and sometimes even in a day, depending on the complexity of the item.
She draws ideas for her works from her favorite movies and online resources. However, for her, not only the appearance is important, but also her inner state while crocheting. “The meaning of crocheting for me 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 noted.
The main support she receives comes from her parents and friends, and she expresses special gratitude to her teacher, who, despite evenings and weekends, helped her navigate patterns and difficult moments. Thanks to this help, Aziza was able to crochet her largest toy and present it at the fair.
She learned to crochet on her own, using online tutorials. This year, Aziza participated in a New Year fair for the first time, where she was able to sell her work. This was a significant achievement for her: she went from complete inexperience to a finished product in just two months.
At the moment, Aziza does not plan to tie her future to handicrafts — crocheting remains her beloved hobby. But she has a dream — to conduct a master class for children so they can also create their desired toy. Soon, she wants to learn to crochet not only toys but also clothing.
In addition to her creative pursuits, Aziza is actively involved in skiing, which she has been doing 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 this principle in crocheting as well,” she says.
Aziza advises her peers not to be afraid of mistakes. “The first work may not be perfect, but it will get better each time,” she added.
