In conversation with Mohammad ullah YahyaPoor

We are delighted to introduce Mohammad ullah YahyaPoor, the visionary Programme Director of Zindagi Now. With 18 years of expertise spanning charities, business, and social enterprises, Mohammad has been a passionate advocate for empowering communities through innovative initiatives.

Founded in September 2023, Zindagi Now is a certified Afghan non-governmental organization operating as a social enterprise. In just a short time, it has accomplished an incredible milestone: training over 150 Afghan women in jewellery design and production. Through this initiative, these women have gained valuable skills, meaningful employment, and newfound confidence, all while working in secure environments or from the comfort of their own homes.

As a co-founder of Zindagi Now, I am proud to collaborate with Mohammad in supporting this vital mission. In addition to mentoring these talented women in jewellery design, I remain actively involved in fundraising and marketing efforts. The sales of our Zindagi Now fundraising necklace continue to sustain the program and its impact. The bonds my team and I have formed with the women of Zindagi Now inspire and empower us every day, as we witness their resilience and creativity drive positive change.

How did you start doing the work you do? 
I grew up in Kabul, a city of breathtaking beauty and rich culture, yet one burdened by decades of hardship. My mother, a single parent raising seven children after my father was killed, is my greatest inspiration. Despite countless struggles, she showed me the strength and resilience of Afghan women. Working as Business Development Manager for Turquoise Mountain taught me the profound impact of craft in restoring pride and creating opportunities. I realized that even small steps to empower women could spark monumental change. 

What inspires you to keep doing all that you do? 
My mother’s unwavering courage and sacrifice. She is proof of the incredible strength Afghan women possess, even in the most challenging circumstances. 
 
What inspired you to start Zindagi Now? 
The determination of Afghan women, whose dreams persist despite facing the immense challenges.

What does it mean to you to provide women a space to work? 
It’s deeply fulfilling. Seeing women create beautiful, meaningful collections and rediscover joy through their work fills me with hope. 
 
What drives your commitment to improving your country and its people? 
Love for Afghanistan and its people. Despite the struggles they’ve endured, their resilience and hope inspire me to keep pushing for progress. 

"Zindagi Now has been transformational—for them and for me. It has empowered Afghan women to break free from traditional constraints and embrace independence"

What is the biggest challenge you face in your work? 
The cultural and societal barriers Afghan women face, compounded by bans on education and work. These systemic challenges weigh heavily, but they also motivate me to keep fighting for change. 

What are Zindagi Now’s graduates achieving today? 
They’re thriving! Many have started family-run jewellery businesses, become trainers, or work as independent designers. Their creations now reach international markets, providing them with sustainable incomes and newfound independence and pride. 

How has Zindagi Now changed your life and theirs? 
Zindagi Now has been transformational—for them and for me. It has empowered Afghan women to break free from traditional constraints and embrace independence, and it’s shown me the limitless potential of determined individuals to create change. 
 
What message do you and the Zindagi Now artisans have for the world? 
We stand as a beacon of hope and resilience for Afghan women, and we urge the world to join us in raising awareness and taking action. Together, we can ensure no voice is silenced and no dream is denied. 

"We stand as a beacon of hope and resilience for Afghan women, and we urge the world to join us in raising awareness and taking action"

 
What is the biggest misconception about women in Afghanistan? 
Many believe Afghan women are passive victims, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Afghan women are strong, resilient, and actively advocate for their rights, even in the most oppressive circumstances.