Baku: Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Leyla Aliyeva, and head of the Baku Media Center, Arzu Aliyeva, recently visited the DOST Inclusive Development and Creativity Center, where they engaged with the creative processes of individuals from vulnerable groups.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, the DOST Inclusive Development and Creativity Center was established in 2021 as an initiative by First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva. It is recognized as the largest inclusive creativity and development hub in the South Caucasus. Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, Anar Aliyev, provided detailed information about the Center’s operations. He highlighted that the facility offers various training sessions and workshops aimed at skill development for people with disabilities, family members of martyrs, and other socially vulnerable groups. The Center also provides rehabilitation services offering socio-psychological support. Since its inception, the Center has organized over 120 events and has served more than 700 individuals, with branches in Ismayilli and Barda. Presently, approximately 200 beneficiaries are engaged in specialized training programs to enhance their personal and professional skills. The beneficiaries’ handicrafts have been showcased
at international events, including the “Art Pavilion” in the Green Zone of COP29, drawing significant public interest.
During the visit, Leyla and Arzu Aliyeva observed activities in pottery, carpet weaving, and visual arts workshops. A special composition created by a trainer with a disability was also showcased, featuring traditional Iravan and Karabakh Chelebi carpet motifs, in honor of “Carpet Weaver’s Day,” celebrated on May 5.
The program also included performances by residents of the Social Service Institution No. 2 for individuals under 18 with disabilities, along with an inclusive concert by the Center’s trainers and beneficiaries. The event concluded with a tree-planting initiative in the Center’s courtyard, with participation from IDEA volunteers.