In 2017, Iris Strill and Bishwadeep Moitra initiated a life-changing project by bridging creativity, sustainability, and empowerment for Afghan refugee women in Delhi.
Fleeing Afghanistan amidst the resurgence of the Taliban, these women found themselves in dire circumstances, grappling with unemployment and meagre incomes.
The couple was working with the UNHCR on a project in Delhi when they came across the Afghan refugee women. Witnessing their struggles firsthand, the couple were moved to make a difference in their lives.
Their vision materialised in 2018 with the establishment of SilaiWali – a social enterprise that upcycles excess fabric waste from garment manufacturing units into rag dolls, pouches, purses, wall art, and hangings.
Starting with just 10 women, SilaiWali has now blossomed into a venture that supports over 70 Afghan refugee artisans, enriching their lives while also diverting substantial fabric waste away from landfills.
The handcrafted dolls and home decor items are meticulously crafted by refugee artisans, each piece intricately reflecting the individuality and resilience of its maker.
The enterprise has garnered recognition on a global scale, showcasing its products at trade shows in the US and Paris, catering to a diverse clientele spread across numerous countries.
Apart from providing sustainable livelihoods to these women, SilaiWali abides by fair wage practices endorsed by the World Fair Trade Organisation, ensuring that artisans earn decent monthly incomes ranging from Rs 12,000 to Rs 14,000.
By instilling financial independence and fostering creative skills, SilaiWali empowers its artisans to break barriers and strengthen their families’ economic stability.
“These Afghan women have shown amazing resilience in rebuilding their lives in India, however temporary their current residence may be,” says Iris.
“Earlier, these families were struggling to make ends meet. Their children couldn’t be sent to school. We are glad that our intervention has somewhat eased their situation,” she adds.