I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with Tahira Afridi, director at Zardozi (now called Artisan Links)– Markets for Afghan Artisans in Pakistan, for well over 8 years now. During that time, I’ve worked with her on a variety of design and development projects as a way to create market opportunities and buyer linkages for the beautiful embroidery produced by the women who make up this enterprise.
Zardozi works with hundreds of refugee artisans throughout Pakistan and will soon be working in Jalabad, Afghanistan. Earlier this year, the NGO partnered with textile designer Jacky Garretsen to develop a line of wall décor that beautifully showcases the level of craftsmanship these women are capable of. From table linens to pillows to stockings, they can do it all.
If you’re a wholesaler or retailer and would like me to make an introduction to this talented group, please let me know. They’re set up to develop custom designs, with reasonable minimums. It would be my pleasure to help expand their buyer connections as they currently have limited access to market.
Tahira was nice enough to take the time to share more about her work and the women behind Zardozi’s products.
