Paris, 15 August. Our first evening.

The Silk Road ran through Herat. For centuries, fabric, spice and stories passed one another there. In August, some of that came together again, in Paris.

Thirty models walked in clothing from their own culture. The room was full of Afghan diaspora. This was not a product launch. It was an evening where people showed where they come from instead of explaining it.

We dedicate this brand to what was in that room. To the women who pick the saffron in Herat, and to everyone who keeps their roots while starting again somewhere else.

What we mostly brought home from Paris were conversations. Chefs, hosts and people from the diaspora told us what they want Zafia to be — and we are building the next steps together with them.