ABUL (Pajhwok): In a small workshop in Kabul, Diba Mohammadi is transforming Afghanistan’s natural gemstones into handcrafted jewellery. Beyond supporting her own family, her business has created employment opportunities for 10 other women.
In this edition of “Women’s Mirror,” Pajhwok Afghan News highlights the story of a woman who, after years of working in Afghanistan’s healthcare sector and humanitarian organisations, launched a social enterprise inspired by the potential of Afghan women and the country’s natural resources. Her vision extends beyond jewellery-making to promoting women’s economic empowerment.
From public health to entrepreneurship
Mohammadi, 32, lives in Kabul’s 11th district. Born into what she describes as an educated family, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Kabul Medical University and a master’s degree in Healthcare Management from a university in Germany.
She is married and has three children.
In an interview with Pajhwok, Mohammadi said she had spent many years working with Afghanistan’s healthcare system and humanitarian organisations.
“During those years, I met and spoke with many women across Afghanistan,” she said.
Having travelled to several provinces while working on health awareness programmes and aid distribution, she said she witnessed firsthand the hardships faced by Afghan women.
Mohammadi believes economic hardship is one of the greatest challenges confronting women in Afghanistan.
“I realised that humanitarian assistance alone cannot solve women’s problems. Creating opportunities, improving skills and enabling women to become financially independent can help address many of their challenges,” she said.
She said she had encountered many talented women who lacked opportunities to use their abilities.
“That always stayed with me until I decided to find a way to help,” she added.
Launching Mehrangar
To turn her idea into reality, Mohammadi consulted friends experienced in handmade gemstone jewellery.
“We discussed starting something together and decided to establish a small workshop,” she said.
One year ago, Mohammadi and her partners founded Mehrangar with an initial investment of $2,000.
The workshop produces jewellery using natural gemstones including lapis lazuli, agate, amethyst, fluorite, emerald, tourmaline and other stones.
Mohammadi said five women currently work directly at the workshop, while another five produce jewellery from their homes.
Before joining the workshop, the women completed jewellery-making training and then began practical production.
Their products include bracelets, pendants, prayer beads and other handmade jewellery featuring different designs. The items are marketed mainly through online platforms.
Mohammadi said her husband has consistently supported her work and also helps deliver customers’ orders.
She expressed satisfaction with the business, saying the number of customers continues to grow.
She said her monthly earnings during peak seasons such as Eid, New Year and other special occasions can exceed 50,000 Afghanis.
According to her, the income from the business has strengthened her family’s financial situation while also creating paid employment opportunities for 10 women.
More than a jewellery brand
Mohammadi said Mehrangar is intended to be more than a jewellery workshop.
The enterprise also provides training for women and girls interested in learning jewellery-making so they can earn independent incomes.
“Many people think Mehrangar is simply a jewellery brand. In reality, jewellery is only the starting point. Mehrangar is a social enterprise dedicated to empowering Afghan women,” she said.
She said the organisation aims to support women through art, education, skills development, entrepreneurship and economic opportunities.
According to Mohammadi, the team is also working to expand its activities beyond jewellery production by offering training programmes, coaching and seminars to improve the capacity of more women.
A message of hope
Mohammadi encouraged Afghan women not to lose hope despite the challenges they face.
“Circumstances may not always be in our favour, but what matters is developing our talents and skills and maintaining strong determination. Even a small step can eventually become a long journey,” she said.
She said Mehrangar has completed its first year of operation and, despite numerous challenges, has gained valuable experience.
“Every step has made us stronger and helped us overcome obstacles,” she added.
A colleague’s experience
Sana Motasim, one of Mehrangar’s team members, said she participated in a digital marketing training programme through the organisation before developing an interest in content creation.
She now works in content production and customer communications.
“I try to introduce Mehrangar’s products and identity through quality content,” she said.
She believes effective content creation plays an important role in promoting the brand. She added that she also enjoys photography and strives to capture the authenticity and beauty of Mehrangar’s handmade products.
hz/sa
