Story of Laila Mohammadi

Laila Mohammadi, a 25-year-old artisan from Herat, Afghanistan, has been passionate about traditional Afghan handicrafts since her teenage years. Specializing in embroidery and handmade decorative items, she turned her love for craft into a small business—despite limited resources and access to markets.
In 2024, Zarina became a participant in the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) project, implemented by WASSA in partnership with UN Women. Through this initiative, she received training in business development, branding, and digital marketing, which helped her take her skills to a new level.
“I knew how to make beautiful things with my hands, but I didn’t know how to turn that into a real business. Now I have a vision.”
— Laila Mohammadi
The WEE project also provided cash assistance, which Laila used to buy raw materials, packaging supplies, and a smartphone. She learned how to take high-quality photos of her products, post them on social media, and engage with customers online.
“Before this, I only sold in my neighborhood. Now people from other districts and even from abroad are contacting me.”
Laila’s business has grown steadily. Her income has increased, and she has started teaching five other young women in her area—sharing both skills and opportunities.
“This isn’t just about money. It’s about showing that women can create, lead, and support each other.”
Laila’s journey shows how economic empowerment, combined with cultural preservation, can transform individual lives and entire communities. With the right support, she is not only building a future for herself—but also paving the way for others.