A FORMER North-East university student who became an Afghan rug trader to help jobless youngsters in the wartorn country will talk about his experiences in the region next week.
Former Durham University student Chris Beales founded a Kabul-based rug-making workshop, part of UK charity Afghan Action, of which he is chief executive.
The outfit now employs around 60 young Afghans.
Mr Beales will talk about his work at Leech Hall, St John’s College, Durham, on Thursday, January 27, at 7.30pm.
A selection of rugs from the workshop will be on sale afterwards.
Mr Beales said: "Afghan Action is currently expanding its programme so we can help more young Afghans to develop their own business.
"Where there are jobs, prospects and hopes for a better future, extremism is less likely to flourish."
The talk will be chaired by David Wilkinson, principal of St John’s College. Admission is free and open to all.
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