Our Story
Hello, my name is Mursal Azizi. I’m 30 years old, originally from Afghanistan, and now living in the beautiful city of Melbourne, Australia.
Growing up under the Taliban regime, I witnessed the strength, resilience, and creativity of Afghan women every day. My mother, a talented seamstress, supported our family through her intricate embroidery and handmade clothing. Even as a child, I was captivated by traditional crafts—designing clothes for my dolls using fabric scraps, blending heritage with imagination. My mother often wondered how I created such designs, despite a world where women were hidden behind burqas and had no access to media.
Embroidery became more than art—it became a language of survival, dignity, and beauty. Every stitch I saw, I praised the hands behind it.
After fleeing Afghanistan and arriving in Australia in 2023, I felt a deep responsibility to share the talents and stories of Afghan women—women like my mother who continue to create beautiful handmade work to sustain their families. That’s why I founded Hoori Handmade, named after our youngest artisan, Hoorizad.
Hoori Handmade is more than a platform—it’s a movement to support Afghan women through their craft, providing them with a sustainable income and a voice in the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower Afghan women by creating employment and income opportunities through handmade products. Each purchase helps them support their families, preserve their cultural heritage, and share their stories with the world.
Sparks in the Dark Exhibition
As part of our mission, we launched the "Sparks in the Dark" exhibition, featuring 208 pieces of embroidery crafted by women in Afghanistan. Held at Nextwave Brunswick from August 15–24, this exhibition marks the 4th anniversary of the fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban.
Each piece represents one week since August 2021—208 weeks of survival, resistance, and hope. All artworks are available for purchase, with proceeds going directly to support Afghan women artisans.
Our Products
We offer a thoughtfully curated range of handmade products:
- Embroidered Artworks – Each piece tells a story of endurance and beauty
- Clothing – Designed with traditional Afghan patterns and a modern touch
- Jewellery – Handmade pieces that reflect Afghan craftsmanship
- Handbags – Stylish, functional, and crafted with care
- Home Decor – Bring Afghan elegance into your space
Every item is lovingly handmade by skilled Afghan women. Your support helps them build independence, confidence, hope and to amplify their voices.
Join the Movement
Explore our collection and become part of a growing community that believes in dignity, creativity, and economic freedom for Afghan women.
Every purchase is a step toward a brighter future. Thank you for standing with us.