5 Minutes with Iris Strill

SilaiWali is rooted in empowering Afghan refugee women through craftsmanship. What inspired you to start this initiative, and how did it evolve into what it is today?

For over 20 years, I worked as a design consultant in the textile industry in India, developing collections with large export companies and conducting training workshops for artisans. Over time, I became increasingly aware of two pressing global issues—climate change and refugee displacement.

I realized I wanted to shift my creative process—not just focus on products, but to invest in people and build a community. At the same time, I wanted to address fashion waste. These two goals led to the creation of SilaiWali, where we upcycle discarded fabrics into handcrafted dolls, ornaments, home decor, and accessories,providing sustainable livelihoods to refugee women.

Today, SilaiWali is a self-sustaining social enterprise, connecting refugee artisans with global markets that value sustainability, transparency, and ethical craftsmanship. But our impact goes beyond the women we employ—it also reshapes traditional gender roles within their families and communities.

The women you work with come from challenging circumstances. How has their journey with SilaiWali impacted their lives, and what transformations have you witnessed?

What struck me when I first met the Afghan refugee women was their kindness, their solidarity with one another, and their incredible skills. Despite the hardships they had endured, there was a warmth and joy in their interactions. They were welcoming, and I was surprised by how naturally they laughed and supported each other.

One of the biggest changes I’ve observed is in their family dynamics. As these women gain financial independence, their voices are heard more at home. Their husbands and families begin to see them as decision-makers. The men have adapted, taking on tasks traditionally seen as ‘women’s work’—caring for children, cooking, and running the household. This shift is slow but significant, breaking down long-held stereotypes and creating a more equitable future. This shift is one of the most profound impacts of SilaiWali. It challenges traditional gender roles and creates a more balanced household dynamic.

Sustainability is a core part of SilaiWali’s mission, from upcycling textile waste to ethical production. How important is this to you, and how do you see the relationship between sustainability and women’s empowerment?

Sustainability is not just a choice—it’s a responsibility. The fashion industry generates an immense amount of waste, and by upcycling discarded fabrics, we turn waste into opportunity. Sustainability and women’s empowerment are deeply connected because both are about creating long-term, fair solutions.

By using waste fabrics, we reduce environmental impact while ensuring that refugee women have steady, dignified employment. It also sends a powerful message: what is often seen as ‘discarded’—whether materials or people forced into displacement—still holds immense value and potential.

What message would you like to share with women around the world this International Women’s Day—especially those who are working to create positive change in their communities?

To all the women working for change—whether in small or big ways—know that your efforts matter. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but every step taken towards justice, empowerment, and sustainability has a lasting impact.

But change doesn’t rest only on women’s shoulders. It’s important for men to be part of this transformation, too. When they take on caregiving, when they support women in leadership, when they challenge outdated gender roles, we move forward together.

Believe in your vision, support one another, and never underestimate the power of a strong community. Women everywhere are reshaping the world—not just as survivors, but as leaders, creators, and changemakers. Keep going, and don’t be afraid to take up space.