18kt Gold Vermeil Next Generation Benafsha Necklace

Next Generation is a platform for Afghan jewellers from our initiative Zindagi Now and men's and women's businesses supported through Arts Charity Turquoise Mountain to show and sell their work.

Their designs draw on their cultural heritage, material design culture, and their own personal experiences. Supporting and treasuring this work will have a huge impact and bring visibility, independence, and joy to the lives of women and men of Afghanistan facing economic and social challenges.

Benafsha Sekandari was once a teacher, dedicated to educating the next generation of Afghan girls. When the schools were closed for girls, her dream of teaching was suddenly taken away. Refusing to give up, Benafsha found a new path with Zindagi Now, training as a jeweller. Today, she proudly creates jewellery to support her two daughters and young son, turning resilience into artistry. Benafsha says: “Even though I cannot teach in a classroom anymore, my jewellery tells stories of strength and hope. Through my work, I am showing my children that we can always find new ways to stand tall.”