Rangina Hamidi – Afghan-American activist & entrepreneur – explains the ancient art of ‘khamak’ embroidery to Kalpana Biswas.Ambassador Ronald Neumann, former US Ambassador to Afghanistan, explains how project-based funding in Afghanistan is less effective than multi-level community development.The Art of ‘Khamak’ – Young girls are taught the colorful embroidery to make their bridal trousseaux, embroider shawls and garments for their husbands and children, and beautify their homes.The Artisans – experts in ‘khamak’ embroidery, a skill passed down through the generations by mothers and grandmothersOpening ceremony of Rangina’s store, Kandahar Treasure, in the Green Zone where sales of hand embroidered garments and accessories are brisk.From Kandahar to Santa Fe International Folk Art Market where the exquisite embroidery finds admirers.

The Film

Kalpana Biswas with Rangina Hamidi

Rangina Hamidi, Afghan-American activist and entrepreneur with Kalpana Biswas.

Kalpana Biswas with Anbassador Ronald Neumann

Ambassador Ronald Neumann, former US Ambassador to Afghanistan,  argues aginst project-based aid in Afghanistan – with Kalpana Biswas.

“Jewels of Kandahar” is a documentary film in progress that tells the story of how a network of 400 war-weary Afghan widows and needy women have broken local tradition to earn a living to save their families.

Kandahar is the spiritual homeland of the notorious Taliban.  The women work for a handicrafts business – Kandahar Treasure — founded by Rangina Hamidi, an Afghan-American graduate of University of Virginia. New systems are rapidly being put in place as the country braces for the imminent pull-out of US troops in 2014.

Where will these women be in 2015? The camera follows Rangina and 10 of her women in their fight for survival.