The Bibi Collective

About Bibi Collective

Bibi means a woman, full of life in Afghan culture.  The Bibi Collective is a group of women who fled Afghanistan in September 2021, leaving their homes, possessions, and most of their extended family members behind.  Following their escape, the families flew to Qatar, Germany, then Washington D.C. and spent over 4 months in refugee camps.  The International Rescue Committee then resettled their families in New Jersey where they continue to receive help from Welcome Home.

These strong, resourceful and determined women are building new lives for their families and themselves. They each have unique and impressive skills, including design, sewing, embroidery, and crochet.  Using those skills and a lot of determination, they have started their own businesses with the help and support of dedicated volunteers. Their creations are both extraordinary and stunningly beautiful – including hand-embroidered clothing, tote bags, crochet, ornaments, and accessories. Using traditional Afghan techniques, they incorporate elements of their culture and the scenery of Afghanistan in their designs.

The Bibi Collective facilitates the empowerment, education, and financial independence for all the women in the Collective. The women have set up their first bank accounts, attended in person sales events, and have excelled in design development. Future plans include training in business management, marketing, and basic accounting. The women all work in their homes while caring for their children and also attend ESL classes. 

THE BIBIS

Bibi Sal, the owner of Zala Collective is a mom and a brand new grandmother. Zala means brightness in Pashto.  The name was selected by Bibi Sal’s children — being hopeful to have a bright future in America. Zala is a family effort, lead by the matriarch Bibi Sal, who has used this initiative as an opportunity to pass on traditional embroidery techniques to her daughter (18) and daughter-in-law (19).  The women make a gorgeous mix of traditional and contemporary designs. 

Bibi Sho, the owner of Sprouting Flower Design is a mom of 4 children under 7 years of age.  Bibi Sho’s name means Sprouting Flower in her native Pashto language and is the inspiration behind her design aesthetic.  Bibi Sho is a free spirit – that spirit is reflected in her unique swirly floral designs.

JaBibi Design is owned by JB, mom to 6 children. JB’s designs are as beautiful, fun, and as thoughtful as she is!  She takes inspiration from her village town in Afghanistan where mountains and wildflowers are abundant. JB finds hand stitching therapeutic, transporting her back to her garden and beloved home. 

Bibi Sofia Design is owned by Sofia, mom of 4 children.  Sofia is a master embroiderer and loves experimenting with new designs. Her youngest child (1.5 years) is quite the adorable co-worker, sitting with her while she sews and creates. Sofia embroiders florals, constellations, evil eye designs, and more.

All the women are hopeful to build new lives and use their talents to support their families. They are determined to learn English while they work on their craft. 

Stores in NJ:

• The General Store, 198 Bellevue Ave in Montclair
• Le Souk, 51 Watchung Avenue in Montclair
• Kimaya Kama, 168 Maplewood Ave in Maplewood

Contact:

• Thebibicollective@gmail.com
• Facebook: Bibi Collective https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083158069473
• Instagram: Bibi_Collective