We are very proud to introduce the 'Next Generation', 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.

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.

Khorshid

After years of living as a refugee in Iran, Khorshid returned to Afghanistan, determined to rebuild her life. She found her path at Zindagi Now, where she trained and grew into a talented craftswoman.

Today, Khorshid proudly creates jewellery that blends Afghan tradition with modern design. “Working with Zindagi Now has given me confidence and independence - I feel proud that my work carries the story of Afghanistan to the world,” she says.

Khorshid's Pieces

Yasamen

Yasamen grew up in a refugee camp, facing hardship and uncertainty. Despite these challenges, she found hope through Zindagi Now, where she learned to craft jewellery with skill and creativity.

Today, she proudly supports her two children with the income from her work.

“Every piece I make is a promise to my children - that even from struggle, beauty and strength can grow.” - Yasamen

Yasamen's Pieces

Aishwa

Marwa and Aishwa, sisters from Badakhshan, faced numerous challenges in pursuing their dreams. They moved to Kabul to join Zindagi Now, where they trained, learned, and honed their craft despite the difficulties.

Today, both sisters not only produce beautiful jewellery but also pass on their knowledge to other women in Badakhshan, creating a ripple of empowerment across their community.

“Every piece we make carries our journey - and now we share what we’ve learned so other women can build their own future,” - Marwa and Aishwa

Aishwa 's Pieces

Roma

Roma was born with a natural passion for jewellery. As a child, she would shape small objects into ornaments, dreaming that one day she could turn her creativity into something bigger. That dream became reality when she joined Zindagi Now.

Today, Roma is one of our most skilled craftswomen, admired for her talent, precision, and imagination.

“Jewellery has always been my language. At Zindagi Now, I finally have the chance to turn my childhood dream into pieces that women around the world can wear with pride,” - Roma.

 

Roma's Pieces

Zahra Hamedi

Zahra’s dream of learning and working was once opposed by her father, who did not allow her to pursue opportunities outside the home. Determined to change her future, Zahra joined Zindagi Now and worked hard to prove herself.

Today, she is a talented craftswoman whose achievements have won the pride of both her parents.“

At first, my father said no, but now he looks at my work with pride - this is my greatest victory,” - Zahra.

Zahra Hamedi's Pieces

Yalda

Yalda Mohammadi dreamed of becoming a designer from childhood. Today, through her work with Zindagi Now, she is transforming that dream into reality by creating beautiful jewellery designs that delight customers. Each piece she makes reflects her passion, creativity, and determination to build a brighter future through her art.

“Designing jewellery is not only my dream - it is my way of showing the world the beauty and talent Afghan women carry within them.” - Yalda

Yalda's Pieces

Horia

Horia Omar – A New Beginning. After spending years in Iran as a refugee, where life was difficult and opportunities were limited, Horia Omar has returned to Afghanistan with new hope. She has proudly joined Zindagi Now’s production team, creating beautiful jewellery that supports her family and gives her a renewed sense of dignity and pride.

“As a refugee in Iran, life was full of struggle. Now, every piece of jewellery I make is a symbol of strength and a way to build a brighter future for my family.” - Horia

Horia's Pieces

Zakia

When the Taliban took over, Zakia Jamshidpoor moved to Kabul, determined to work and support her family. It was there she discovered Zindagi Now, which opened a window of opportunity for her to pursue her passion and turn it into a livelihood.

The mango inspires Zakia’s first collection for Pippa Small Jewellery, its shape, warmth, and the memories of summer days in Afghanistan. Each piece is a celebration of resilience and creativity, carrying both beauty and meaning.

“For me, jewellery is more than decoration - it is a way to bring hope and joy. Through this collection, I want to show that Afghan women can create something beautiful even in the hardest times.” - Zakia

Zakia's Pieces

Benafasha

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.

“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.” - Benafsha

Benafsha's Pieces

Next Generation Artisan - Deeba

Deeba

Trees, especially tall ones like willows and plantains, serve as nests for birds. When birds build their homes in these lofty trees, they demonstrate the resilience we can muster to build our lives, no matter the challenges. My designs, inspired by the delicate willow tree leaves, embody this spirit of resilience.

Deeba's Pieces

Asma

Flowers relieve stress. I was fond of flowers when my father was gardening, which made me remember my memories. I took the inspiration for this design from the flowers that were in our home.

Asma's Pieces

Sitara

I totally lost myself, and almost decided to stay home and do nothing until I visited Zindagi Now, who provide great opportunities for Afghan women.

Sitara's Pieces

Zuhal

Light is beautiful, but more beautiful in the darkness. Jewellery is a light in the darkness. Zindagi Now is a light for the future, and we always dream to come together with our friends from different parts of Afghanistan to create our collections.

Zuhal's Pieces

Saeeda

Making jewellery can lift our mood, make us feel amazing about ourselves, and serve as a way for us to express our unique sense of style. One of the lesser-known facts about bangles is that they improve blood circulation. I prefer to work mostly in silver designs when I create bangles because silver bangles fight negative emotions.

Saeeda's Pieces

Sumaia

I lived as a refugee in Iran, a challenging time not just for me, but for my family as well. Now, we have returned, and I stand as a proud daughter to my Dad, creating beautiful handmade jewellery.

Next Generation Artisan - Sumaia

Sumaia's Pieces

Next Generation Artisan - Maryam Habibi

Maryam Habibi

The day I graduated from this art centre, I felt a surge of independence and empowerment. I was no longer just a member of my family, but a fighter for my own future.

Maryam Habibi's Pieces

Salma

During my time as a refugee in Peshawar, I was unable to experience the beauty of my homeland and its craftsmanship. Today, I stand as a proud Afghan jeweller, creating exquisite designs for people around the world.

Next Generation Artisan - Salma

Salma's Pieces

Zaila

The past and the present are very different, but I wanted to combine these differences and present them next to each other. My design is inspired by the old jewellery of Afghanistan and combines it with the modern design of today.

Next Generation Artisan - Zaila

Zaila's Pieces

Next Generation Artisan - Sadaf

Sadaf

Imagine a design so unique and captivating that it draws the attention of everyone in the room. That was my vision when I looked to the skies and drew inspiration from the graceful movements of birds. I've poured my heart and soul into creating a design that captures birds' simplicity and beauty and stands out as an alluring masterpiece.

Sadaf's Pieces

Mahjoba

It is difficult for a young girl to have self-confidence in such a situation in Afghanistan, but this art not only builds our confidence but also our future.

Next Generation Artisan - Mahjoba

Mahjoba's Pieces

Next Generation Artisan - Enjila

Enjila

A trip to Bamyan changed my life's history. I fell in love with the beauty of nature in Afghanistan, which inspired me to produce beautiful art pieces with Zindagi Now.

Enjila's Pieces

Next Generation Artisan - Mahdi

Mahdi

I'm a motivated and passionate jeweller who loves the art of jewellery making. I have dedicated fifteen years to this profession, showcasing my skills in both crafting and designing. I not only produce jewellery but also focus on my artistic design.  

I used coins as my inspiration for this collection, as they have been used as decoration on clothing and jewellery for centuries in Afghanistan. I always draw on Afghan culture and tradition for my inspiration, and this collection is no exception. My hope is to keep the tradition alive, and as a jeweller, I hope to do this by making similar everyday pieces that draw on traditional designs.  

I aspire to achieve even greater dreams and continue striving towards transforming my business into a modern and well-equipped jewellery making enterprise. With determination and enthusiasm, I hope to shine internationally in the realm of jewellery craftsmanship and showcase my art and abilities. 

Mahdi's Pieces

Hamasa

Making jewellery is not just a job for me. It’s an interesting hobby. It’s what keeps me occupied, happy, and fulfilled every day. I love designing and making wearable items is satisfying.   

My collection is inspired by an Egyptian Queen who was a strong woman. Despite the many challenges she faced, she led a nation to success. In her time, culture and art flourished. I hope those who buy my pieces feel powerful and beautiful when they wear my work.  I have many ideas I need to work on, and I view jewellery making as an avenue to bring my ideas to life. It helps me tell my stories and communicate intimately without words. I want my jewellery to be a thread, a road that connects me with people around the globe.
I am a very communicative and sociable person. Jewellery helps me communicate with people I haven’t met yet in a way I otherwise don’t see possible.  

Next Generation Hamasa Jewellery

Hamasa's Pieces