Who are we?

The Society of Afghan Women Engineers is a nonprofit organization that is not linked to any political group. The aim of this organization is to improve the capacity of women engineers who have been prevented from continuing their education or work due to imposed government restrictions.

The Society of Afghan Women Engineers is formed by bringing together professors, employees of various institutions and engineering graduates with cooperation of national and international organization to work together to improve the necessary capacities and skills of girls who have been kept away from work and education in engineering by holding seminars, workshops and free training courses.

We are committed to fostering a supportive community that encourages education, professional development, and leadership opportunities. Our goal is to break barriers, promote diversity, and contribute to the advancement of engineering in Afghanistan by harnessing the talents and potential of Afghan women.

1. Empowerment: Empowering Afghan female engineers through networking, mentoring and access to resources that enhance their skills and knowledge.

2. Education: Promoting educational initiatives, workshops, and educational programs to bridge the gender gap in engineering education and provide equal opportunities for women in this field.

3. Professional development: Facilitates professional development, career progress and leadership role in the engineering industry for Afghan women.

4. Community building: Fostering a strong sense of community among women engineers by organizing events, conferences, and activities that facilitate cooperation and knowledge sharing.

5. Support: Advocate for gender equality and inclusion of women in engineering professions, working to break down challenging barriers and stereotypes

6. Vision: To inspire the next generation of female engineers, by displaying their achievements, projects and contributions. It increases the vision of Afghan female engineers.

7. Cooperation: Working with industry partners, educational organizations, and government agencies to create a supportive ecosystem that recognizes and values women's contributions to engineering.

8. Networking: Establishing a strong network of professionals to provide support and opportunities for Afghan female engineers at different stages of their careers.

We anticipate a future in which every Afghan woman with a passion for engineering will have access to quality education, mentoring and resources. Society of Afghan Women Engineers aspires to be a driving force in promoting gender equality, innovation and sustainable development through active participation of women in all aspects of engineering.

Meet Our Team

Sahar Mahmood; Founder

Founder of SAWE, dedicated to empowering Afghan women in engineering and urban planning.

Currently leading a UN project on women in Afghanistan. She is actively advocating for women's rights and opportunities in Afghanistan.

Sahar Mahmood is the visionary behind the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), an organization dedicated to empowering Afghan women in the engineering field. With a background in urban planning and a passion for creating positive change, Sahar has continually sought ways to uplift and support women aspiring to enter the engineering industry in Afghanistan.

Originally from Kabul, Sahar graduated from Kabul Polytechnic University and gained valuable experience through internships at the Kabul Municipality and the Ministry of Urban Development and Land. Her professional journey includes serving as an estimation engineer in a leading construction company, as well as working as a community liaison officer. These roles deepened her commitment to fostering community connections and promoting societal progress.

In addition to her professional achievements, Sahar has been actively involved in organizations such as Generation Positive, White Assembly, and the Society of Afghan Engineers, where she contributed to various youth and social empowerment initiatives. Her passion for women's empowerment led to the founding of SAWE, a platform aimed at breaking barriers for Afghan women in engineering.

Sahar is currently working on a significant UN Women project, which she sees as an incredible opportunity to support women and advocate for their rights. Her leadership at SAWE reflects her unwavering dedication to building a brighter future for Afghan women in engineering.

Madina Faizi; Co-Founder

Co-Founder of SAWE, dedicated to empowering women in engineering and urban planning.

Holds a master’s degree in Geography, Spatial Management, and Heritage for International Cooperation.

Madina Faizi is an urban planning professional and a dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment in engineering and urban development. Her interest in planning and community-focused development is rooted in a strong belief in education and inclusive cities.

She studied Urban Planning at Kabul Polytechnic University and later completed her master’s degree in Geography, Spatial Management, and Heritage for International Cooperation at the University of Florence.

Throughout her studies, Madina actively engaged in initiatives such as the Urban Studies Committee, Girls Toward Leadership, the KPU Debate Club, and SAWE, where she developed leadership and collaborative skills.

As Co-Founder of SAWE, Madina is committed to supporting and empowering Afghan women in engineering. Through her work, she focuses on creating learning opportunities, building professional networks, and contributing to a more inclusive and resilient future for Afghan society.

Yalda Ebram Atif; Communication Officer

Yalda Ebram Atif communications Officer at SAWE, passionate about empowering Afghan women in engineering. She graduated from Kabul Polytechnic University. Yalda Ebram Atif is actively contributes to various organizations to support community and professional growth.

Yalda Ebram Atif, the Communications Officer at the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her academic and extracurricular pursuits. Born into an educated family 27 years ago, she followed her passion for engineering after excelling in her university entrance exam, securing admission to Kabul Polytechnic University. Graduating with honors in 2021, she has since applied her engineering expertise to support her community while actively participating in various organizations and initiatives. Her involvement with the Urban Planning and Engineering Society of Afghanistan, the Debate Group at Kabul Polytechnic University, and the “Youth for Youth” association has broadened her horizons, contributing to both her personal and professional growth.

As SAWE’s Communications Officer, Yalda Ebram Atif is committed to fostering connections and collaboration among Afghan women in engineering. Her proactive approach ensures that SAWE's message of empowerment reaches as many aspiring female engineers as possible, while also creating opportunities for networking and professional development.

Samira Hussaini ; Project Manager

A dedicated engineer and project manager, committed to advancing engineering projects and empowering Afghan women in the technical field.

Currently, she is leading engineering and development projects with national and international organizations, including WFP in Herat, where she focuses on efficient project management, team coordination, and impactful program implementation.

Originally from Kabul, Samira graduated from Kabul Polytechnic University with a degree in engineering. She has gained extensive experience working in various engineering roles across private companies and NGOs, where she developed expertise in project planning, execution, and community engagement.

Beyond her professional work, Samira is passionate about supporting women in engineering and fostering opportunities for their growth in Afghanistan. She actively contributes to initiatives that encourage young women to pursue technical careers and participate in sustainable development projects.

Through her leadership and commitment, Samira Hussaini continues to make meaningful contributions to the engineering community, demonstrating the power of dedication, knowledge, and advocacy for women in Afghanistan.

Sara Hashemi ; Communication Manager

Urban Planner

Sara Hashemi is a passionate Communication Manager, committed to fostering collaboration, sharing ideas, and supporting people in their personal and professional growth, with a particular focus on empowering Afghan women.

She has experience in project coordination and training, including participating in a climate change training program and collaborating as a trainer with the Afghan Women Engineers Association. These experiences have strengthened her skills in leadership, creative problem-solving, and effective communication.

Sara enjoys engaging with diverse groups, facilitating meaningful discussions, and creating opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and personal experiences. She thrives in dynamic, collaborative environments where teamwork, creativity, and mutual support drive impactful outcomes.

Through her dedication and collaborative approach, Sara Hashemi contributes to innovative projects and initiatives, particularly those that empower Afghan women, demonstrating the value of communication, creativity, and supporting others.

Nilab Omid | Designer & Advertiser

Graduate in Urban Planning from Kabul Polytechnic University, with a solid academic foundation in land-use planning, spatial analysis, zoning regulations, urban development principles, and sustainable planning concepts.

Professional experience in graphic design and visual communication, urban and architectural design, preparation of technical drawings, GIS-based spatial mapping, and CAD-supported drafting, with the ability to translate planning and engineering concepts into clear visual and technical outputs.

Proficient in industry-standard software including AutoCAD, Revit, GIS platforms, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, CorelDRAW, SketchUp, and Lumion, enabling 2D and 3D design development, rendering, visualization, and professional presentation of projects.

Hands-on professional training experience with the Capital Region Independent Development Authority (CRIDA) and the National Housing Enterprise, contributing to urban development initiatives, housing projects, planning documentation, and institutional workflows.

Currently an active member of the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), serving as a Designer and Advertiser, with responsibilities in branding, visual identity development, digital and print media design, public outreach, and technical communication.

Shabnam Faqirzada;Program Manager

Urban planner and professional artist

Shabnam Faqirzada is an urban planner and professional artist with a strong interest in program development, strategic coordination, and social impact. She is a graduate of Construction Engineering from the Urban Planning Department at Kabul Polytechnic University, where she built a solid academic foundation in urban planning and the built environment.

Currently based in Pakistan, Shabnam is further strengthening her professional capacity through studies in Digital Marketing and Graphic Design, aiming to combine technical knowledge with effective communication and program visibility.

At the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), she serves as the Program Manager, overseeing the planning, coordination, and implementation of organizational programs and initiatives. Her role focuses on aligning activities with SAWE’s mission, supporting team coordination, and ensuring programs are meaningful, inclusive, and impact-oriented.

Alongside her program management role, Shabnam is an experienced professional artist, working across various mediums and using art as a tool for storytelling and expression. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to contribute both strategically and creatively to initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and community-focused development.

Do you want to be a part of our team

Join us in empowering Afghan women engineers to continue their education and pursue their dreams. Together, we can make a lasting impact in shaping their futures.

Join Now

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse