SAWE Herat, Introductory Meeting

On 29 January 2026, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) Herat Chapter held its first online introductory meeting, bringing together women engineers and engineering students from Herat Province to connect, share perspectives, and support the launch of an organization dedicated to empowering women in engineering. Facilitated by SAWE Project Manager Samira Hassani, the meeting highlighted strong participant support for SAWE’s mission, addressed the needs of women affected by current educational restrictions, and fostered discussion on future programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives, marking an important first step toward collaboration and professional growth for women engineers in the province. 

Mindset & Growth Webinar 

On Friday, 12 December 2025, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) hosted an online self-development and mindset session led by Rooh Afza Abobakr, providing Afghan women engineers with a supportive space to reflect on personal growth, resilience, and career motivation. The interactive discussion emphasized the role of mindset, self-awareness, and emotional strength alongside technical skills, encouraged open sharing of experiences, and concluded with a thoughtful Q&A and positive participant feedback, reinforcing SAWE’s commitment to holistic empowerment through meaningful and capacity-building initiatives. 

1st Anniversary of SAWE 

On 8 March, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) celebrated its first anniversary alongside International Women’s Day, marking a year of dedication to empowering Afghan women in engineering. The event featured reflections from SAWE Founder and Director Sahar Mahmood and inspiring contributions from invited guests, combined with symbolic activities, open discussion, networking, and a closing celebration, reinforcing SAWE’s mission to support, unite, and amplify the voices of Afghan women engineers while building pathways for continued growth and resilience. 

Connecting Minds, Sharing Hope 

On 29 September, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) hosted a small yet meaningful gathering that brought Afghan women engineers together in a safe and supportive space to connect, share experiences, and reflect on their educational and professional journeys. With insights from guest speaker Sanam Ahmadi, an urban planner and researcher, the discussion highlighted resilience, hope, and a shared commitment to supporting one another and envisioning a stronger future for women in engineering in Afghanistan. 

Voices of Afghan Women Engineers 

On 23 June 2025, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) commemorated International Women in Engineering Day with an inspiring gathering that highlighted the voices and experiences of Afghan women engineers. Through personal reflections shared by five women engineers and supportive messages from distinguished guests, the event emphasized resilience, hope, and the importance of sustaining educational and professional aspirations, creating an empowering space that reaffirmed confidence, solidarity, and belief in the future of women in engineering. 

Climate Change Adaptation & Disaster Risk Reduction 

On 7–8 May 2025, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), in collaboration with Act for Climate (A4C), conducted a two-day Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction training that brought together over 45 participants from multiple provinces and diverse professional backgrounds. Through interactive sessions focused on climate fundamentals, adaptation strategies, and community-based resilience, the training enhanced participants’ awareness, practical understanding, and capacity to address climate-related risks, reflecting SAWE and A4C’s continued commitment to empowering youth, especially women, for sustainable development in Afghanistan. 

Türkiye Scholarship Webinar 

On Sunday, 2 February 2025, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) hosted an informative webinar on the Türkiye Scholarship to guide Afghan students from diverse academic backgrounds through the application process. Featuring a detailed presentation by Marwa Wardak and additional insights from Zulaikha Hamidi, the session provided practical guidance on eligibility, documentation, and application strategies, followed by an engaging Q and A discussion. Participants valued the clarity, support, and motivation offered, reflecting SAWE’s continued commitment to expanding access to higher education and empowering Afghan youth, especially women, through educational opportunities. 

CV & Resume Writing Webinar 

On Friday, 10 January 2025, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) hosted an interactive webinar on CV and resume writing to help Afghan students and professionals strengthen their job application skills. Led by Ghezal Kohestani, the session provided practical guidance on organizing content, highlighting relevant skills, tailoring resumes, and avoiding common mistakes, followed by an engaging discussion on internships and early-career challenges. The program concluded with motivational remarks from Engineer Hamayon Ibrahim, leaving participants encouraged and inspired. The webinar reflects SAWE’s commitment to empowering Afghan professionals, especially women, by providing accessible learning opportunities that build confidence, skills, and career readiness.

Chevening Scholarship Webinar 

On Friday, 22 November 2024, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) hosted an informative webinar on the Chevening Scholarship to guide aspiring scholars from diverse fields through the application process. Featuring Maryam Khurram, a 2022 Chevening Scholar, the session provided practical advice on eligibility, personal statements, and references, followed by an engaging Q&A where participants received detailed guidance and encouragement. Attendees expressed appreciation for the clarity and inclusivity of the event, reflecting SAWE’s commitment to creating empowering opportunities and supporting academic and professional advancement across Afghanistan. 

SAWE'S First Virtual Meetup

On Wednesday, 2 October 2024, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) held its first virtual meetup, bringing together Afghan female engineers, professionals, and supporters to discuss the organization’s mission and future goals. Founder Sahar Mahmood presented SAWE’s vision, highlighted challenges faced by women engineers in Afghanistan, and outlined the society’s role in mentorship, innovation, and gender equality. The session included a lively Q&A with co-founder Madina Faizi, where participants received clarification on SAWE’s strategy and shared ideas for growth, collaboration, and partnerships. The meetup concluded with strong support and enthusiasm from attendees, marking the start of SAWE’s ongoing efforts to empower Afghan women in engineering and foster learning, networking, and professional development. 

Founders Table Event – Ehya Hub 

On 15 November 2025, Sahar Mahmood, President and Director of the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), attended the Founders Table Event at Ehya Hub, engaging with aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. The event provided an open space for sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and exchanging ideas on entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation. SAWE’s participation reinforced its commitment to supporting women beyond engineering, promoting cross-sector collaboration and economic empowerment, while highlighting the creativity, resilience, and strength of Afghan women leaders and future founders. 

NGOS/ CSOS Monthly Meeting

On 22 January 2025, representatives from the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) attended the Tenth NGOs/CSOs Network Monthly Meeting, which focused on exploring UN Women’s new opportunities for collaboration with women-led organizations and understanding how ERP systems can improve NGO and CSO operations. The meeting also provided a platform for consultations on the sustainability and future development of the NGOs/CSOs networking platform. 

Hamburg Afghanistan Week

On 8 August 2024, during Hamburg Afghanistan Week, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers presented its mission, the reasons for its establishment, and the challenges it faces. The team engaged with participants who showed interest in learning about SAWE’s plans and offering support, with special thanks to Sanam Ahmadi for helping showcase the organization at this important event. 

AKAH-A Technical Conference – Model Housing Design 

On 28 July 2024, Sahar Mahmood, President and Director of the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE), attended a technical conference organized by the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat in Afghanistan at Serena Hotel, focusing on model housing design and technical specifications. SAWE’s participation highlighted its role in supporting women professionals in engineering and architecture, facilitated connections with engineers and experts from national and international organizations, and emphasized the inclusion of young Afghan women in development initiatives. The event reinforced SAWE’s commitment to representing women engineers, strengthening professional networks, and fostering collaboration with key institutions and development actors. 

Society of Afghan Engineers (SAE)- USA 

On 26 July 2024, the Society of Afghan Women Engineers (SAWE) attended the Board of Directors meeting of the Society of Afghan Engineers (SAE), a professional organization of Afghan engineers based in the United States. SAWE introduced its mission, vision, and initiatives focused on empowering Afghan women engineers and promoting professional development and community building. SAE Board members expressed strong interest in SAWE’s work and enthusiasm for future collaboration, with Eng. Jalal Masumi, President of SAE, offering encouragement and support. The meeting marked an important step in strengthening professional ties and laying the foundation for future collaboration to support Afghan engineers, especially women.