I left Afghanistan during the Cold War when I was eleven years old. Years later, after working with the United Nations, I returned to Afghanistan at twenty-four and witnessed the difficult lives of Afghan families — especially women in rural and tribal communities.

Since childhood, I have loved the beauty and artistry of handmade rugs. Every rug carries a story of patience, skill, and hard work. Many Afghan artisans receive very little for that work, even though it is often essential to putting food on the table. Piedmont Rugs was founded to honor that craftsmanship, share these remarkable works of art, and help create better opportunities for the Afghan artisans and families who depend on rug-making for their livelihood.