FAQs

Artijaan – a combination of the words ‘artisan’ and ‘jaan’, which in Persian means soul, life, or colloquially, ‘dear’, or ‘love’.

Artijaan is a social enterprise that bridges the gap between business and development aid to support traditional artisan communities facing socio-economic challenges in the Global South. We connect craftworkers  who embody their traditional cultural heritage with conscious buyers around the world looking for soulful objects of beauty to enrich their lives. Through the creation and curation of ethically handcrafted products, we aim to share the unique stories and exceptional skills of our artisan partners.

Artijaan proudly collaborates with a vibrant community of over forty artisans across Afghanistan, each bringing unique skills, stories, and heritage to their craft. Our artisans work in nine distinct traditional crafts, ranging from weaving and embroidery to ceramics, jewelry making, and more. These crafts are deeply rooted in Afghan culture, passed down through generations, and reflect the rich, diverse heritage of the region.

In addition to our direct artisan collaborations, we’ve helped establish 20 women’s networks, connecting over a thousand women across Afghanistan. These networks create a supportive environment for women craftworkers to learn, grow, and share their skills while achieving economic independence. Artijaan also supports 540 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), empowering local businesses with training, design, provision of raw materials and access to the international market.

Artisans are paid per piece they create, and they also receive payment for attending training sessions. Artijaan is committed to ensuring that artisans earn a fair, living wage that reflects their skill and effort.

We also provide additional support, including access to raw materials and tools, so artisans can continue to develop their craft sustainably and increase their income over time.

Our current focus is in Afghanistan, where we collaborate with artisans across seven provinces. Each region brings its unique heritage, enriching our collections with depth and authenticity.

The process begins with local artisans who are experts in their craft, often drawing on generations of knowledge passed down within families. Artijaan works closely with these artisans to ensure that each piece meets high standards of quality while preserving the cultural integrity of Afghan artistry. Our teams provide guidance on international design trends and quality requirements, which helps artisans produce pieces that resonate with global audiences while honoring traditional Afghan aesthetics.

Materials are sourced locally whenever possible. We use upcycled materials from local shops or deadstock from international luxury brands.

Each product undergoes careful finishing touches to ensure durability and beauty. From hand-loomed textiles and embroidered pieces to ceramics and jewelry, every item is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, infusing Artijaan products with both heritage and artistry.

Yes, women are allowed to work in some sectors like the private sector in Afghanistan, though restrictions vary, especially in certain regions, and opportunities can be limited.

Women in Afghanistan face numerous restrictions and live under what has been described as gender apartheid—Afghanistan being the only country in the world with such conditions. However, in some sectors, including parts of the private sector, women are permitted to work. That said, restrictions vary widely by region, and opportunities are often limited.

Women are at the heart of Artijaan’s mission to preserve and promote Afghan craftsmanship. We work with more than a thousand skilled women artisans across Afghanistan, organized into 20 local networks and through 540 enterprises that we support. These networks foster collaboration, skill-sharing, and mutual support, offering women a platform to create and earn income while also providing access to resources, training, and business opportunities.

Find out more about our women’s network by reading this chronicle.

Women are at the heart of Artijaan’s mission to preserve and promote Afghan craftsmanship. We work with over a thousand skilled women artisans across Afghanistan, organised into 20 local networks that foster collaboration, skill-sharing, and mutual support. These networks give women a platform to create and earn income, while also providing them with access to resources, training, and business opportunities.

From embroidery and weaving to pottery and jewelry making, Afghan women artisans bring their expertise and cultural heritage to each piece. By collaborating with Artijaan, these artisans can reach a global market, which not only helps preserve their traditional crafts but also empowers them economically and socially. Many of these women are the main providers for their families, and their work with Artijaan allows them to gain independence and contribute to their communities.