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Celebrating International Women’s Day Traveling in Pakistan with Bunyaad

On March 8, 2025, we were thrilled to have so many people join us online as Yousaf and Jenni took us with them as they journeyed through Pakistan. Our North American friends met Bunyaad rug artisans and experienced the magic of rug finishing and designing right before their eyes. It was the perfect adventure to bring the vibrant culture of Pakistan to so many, without the long plane ride.

Over 50% of the rug artisans Bunyaad works with are women, women who are empowered through fair trade, women who are making amazing impacts in their families and their communities!

We also spent time with the Bunyaad artisans now crafting frames for our fair trade Quilling cards. Shop our fair trade frame collection >>

Take time to meet the incredible people behind Bunyaad’s stunning collection of fair trade, hand knotted rugs. Recorded live on March 8, 2025.

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