feature

8 things to buy (or do) that support Afghan women in sport.

Article by

Angelica Daujotas

It’s not just about football, it’s about freedom. Since the Taliban banned women from sport in 2021, Afghan girls and women have been fighting for the right to play, exist, and be seen.

While FIFA recently launched a “Refugee Team” pilot using Afghan players, it still refuses to officially recognise the Afghanistan Women’s National Team. This move leaves 75 displaced athletes without a country, a ranking, or the backing they deserve.

So what can we do?
We can listen. We can support. And we can show up. In what we wear, what we share, and who we celebrate.
Here are 9 standout items from Afghan designers, refugee-led projects, and the very looks worn by players in the GOAL Editions feature that you can buy, borrow, or shout about to support this ongoing fight for visibility and recognition.

1. Avizeh – Jewellery and clothing rooted in Afghan tradition

Founded by British-Afghan designer Marina Khan, Avizeh blends traditional Afghan motifs with modern fashion statements. Each piece is handcrafted and honours the richness of Afghan heritage. 

Why it matters: Profits help support Afghan refugee women and artisans in Pakistan.

avizeh.co.uk

2. Turquoise Mountain – Handmade heritage that tells a story

From hand-carved woodwork to intricate ceramic tiles and fine jewellery, Turquoise Mountain is where Afghan tradition meets timeless design. Founded to revive endangered crafts in post-conflict zones, the brand works directly with Afghan artisans, many of them women displaced by war, to create pieces rooted in centuries-old techniques.

Why it matters: Every purchase helps sustain local economies, preserve cultural heritage, and empower Afghan women through dignified, creative work.

turquoisemountain.org

3. Futsol – The brand worn by Afghan athletes

Seen on players like Sahar and Fatema in this GOAL Editions feature, Futsol makes high-performance, fashion-forward sportswear with a global message. 
‍
Why it matters: Style and substance. Designed for the pitch and beyond. 

futsol.co

4. Personal Jewellery – Worn, not sponsored

Many Afghan players wore their own jewellery in the GOAL Editions feature - a reminder that identity and history can't be stripped away. 

Why it matters: What you carry with you matters.
Support Afghan artisans on platforms like Etsy

5. Peachy Den – Worn by Fatema

London-based Peachy Den is known for flattering fits and femme-forward designs. Fatema wore a full look (top + skirt) in a bold moment of softness and strength. 
‍
Why it matters: Not refugee gear. Not survivor gear. Just good gear. 

peachyden.co.uk

6. Merrfer Socks – Functional with a twist

Worn by multiple players in the shoot, Merrfer creates upcycled & deadstock accessories, which are durable, design-forward socks that work for every outfit.

Why it matters: No outfit is complete without detail. 

merrfertheshop.com

7. Tasnim Chowdhury – Designer Shorts with Global Roots

Elaha wore shorts by emerging designer Tasnim Chowdhury, a boundary-breaking talent blending culture, sport, and storytelling.

Why it matters: Young, brown, loud, and leading. 

@tasnimchowdury

8. A Voice – Use it for the Afghan women’s team

The Afghan Women’s National Team needs global support as they fight for official FIFA recognition.

Why it matters: In April 2026, FIFA Congress will vote on a rule change. Your voice now could help shift the outcome. 

afghanwnt.com

@afghan.wnt

This is more than a lookbook. It’s a movement. These players fled a regime that banned them from sport. They built new lives across continents. And now, they’re gearing up, literally and metaphorically, for a return to the world stage.
Want to help? Start here:
- Share their story
- Buy with intention
- Use your platform
- Push FIFA for full recognition