It is a well established fact that women are the glue that can hold societies together. In countries such as Afghanistan where the culture is so male dominated and the country is so war torn, empowering women is the best road to peace.

The Business Council for Peace (Bpeace) was formed to help women in war torn countries like Afghanistan. They established the “Fast Runners” which is a program that teaches business skills to women so they can build their own successful business and in the process create jobs.

Bakht Nazira is a graduate of the “Fast Runners” program. She has developed a successful business producing women’s apparel and jewelry. She currently employs dozens of women. An article about Bakht Nazira and her husband appeared in the January 28, 2011 edition of the New York Times.

Yoga Mats for Peace (YM4P) has contracted with Bakht Nazira to produce beautifully embroidered Yoga Mat Bags and Afghan jewelry for sale to Yoga enthusiasts. A portion of each sale will be donated to Bpeace to help enhance the “Fast Runners” program. In addition, the manufacturing of these products will produce more jobs for Afghan women.