SilaiWali is an organisation in New Delhi dedicated to transforming the lives of marginalised communities, especially Afghan refugee women. Founded in 2018, it provides these women with sustainable income opportunities by training them in traditional skills like stitching, embroidery, and crochet. This allows them to earn a dignified living while adapting their artisanal skills for international markets.
A Safe Space and Community
SilaiWali’s workspace is designed to be accessible and welcoming, situated close to the homes of the women it employs. The organisation works with Afghan women from the Hazara, Tajik, and Pashtun tribes who have fled their homeland, escaping persecution. While they found safety in India, they face new challenges—particularly financial instability.
With limited access to government welfare, these families rely heavily on the income from SilaiWali, making the work a vital source of stability. SilaiWali offers training and employment, turning traditional skills into a means of livelihood. The women create luxury home décor items from upcycled waste fabric, blending Afghan heritage with modern designs.
More Than a Job: A Path to Empowerment
SilaiWali’s mission extends beyond employment. It fosters a community where women feel respected and empowered. Fair wage policies ensure that the artisans can support their families and send their children to school. Many of the women have become primary earners, challenging traditional gender roles and shifting dynamics within their households. SilaiWali is certified by the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO), guaranteeing ethical practices like fair wages and zero child labor.
Environmental Responsibility
SilaiWali is also committed to sustainability. In a city grappling with textile waste from fast fashion, the organisation repurposes discarded fabrics into beautiful products. This process aligns with circular economy principles, minimising waste and reducing the environmental impact of production. Partnerships with brands have allowed SilaiWali to transform over 15 tonnes of fabric waste, contributing to a zero-carbon production process.
A Future of Hope and Resilience
SilaiWali stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, offering Afghan refugee women a chance to reclaim their agency and build a better future. By creating opportunities for financial independence and reshaping social norms, SilaiWali is not only transforming lives but also paving the way for a more sustainable and compassionate approach to craft and commerce.
