Hasina Rafi: I Like Everything About Sewing

        Hasina Rafi has found her passion in sewing. In her native Afghanistan, she sometimes stitched by hand. But thanks to the Heela sewing class, begun in 2016 in partnership with ReEstablish Richmond, Hasina now uses a sewing machine to produce her bright creations. 

              The Heela courses, which last for 18 weeks, aim to uplift refugee women by empowering them with new skills. For Hasina, learning to use a sewing machine has done just that. Now, she not only enjoys the craft of sewing, but she has become an entrepreneur, selling a line of products through Instagram. An assortment of her colorful masks, bowl cozies, and dish covers are available at HASINA's HOMEGOODS . 

              Hasina, 29, and her husband arrived in the United States in 2017. They are the parents of two girls, ages 7 and 2.  While she misses her parents and siblings in Afghanistan, Hasina said she is happy to be in the United States because life is more secure.  Even her husband’s contracting COVID-19 four months ago proved to be manageable. His illness was “not heavy,” she said. Now, “he is fine.” 

              When she began sewing, her favorite product was the dish cozies, which protect from hot dishes, Hasina said. Now, she is most happy to be making masks “so people stay safe.” Her masks come in various styles, including one with a clear mouthpiece. A wearer can still show off a smile.  “I like everything about sewing,” she said. “It’s my favorite work.” 

Photos by Eileen Daniel [Instagram @elieendanielphy]