Shams Tailoring Workshop

Afghanistan

My name is Bibi Hafeza, and I’m the founder of Shams Tailoring & Embroidery, based in Rasala village in the center of Qalat, Zabul. I started this workshop five years ago, during a time when my family was going through serious financial difficulties. What began as a way to help my household quickly grew into something bigger than I had imagined. With support and encouragement from my family—both emotionally and financially—I turned my personal sewing skills into a business. I never had formal training, but I learned tailoring by doing it myself. Now, I work with five talented women, and together, we create handmade clothing, embroidered shawls, children’s outfits, necklaces, and other items that reflect our culture and care. Our goal goes beyond just selling clothes. I started this business to help women like me—especially those who are struggling financially and don’t have many opportunities. I want to train and support them, so they can build a future for themselves and their families, just like I did. Through Aseel, we now have the chance to share our work with people outside our village. Every purchase supports not just a product, but a mission—to uplift women and preserve the beauty of Afghan handwork. At Shams Tailoring Workshop, every stitch carries hope, every piece tells a story, and every order helps us move one step closer to a brighter tomorrow.