This has been Asima’s life mantra. Born in Hyderabad, grew up with limited resources but limitless ambition. ‘Asima Birjis, a master craft person and director of SAI SADHGURU producer company ltd., has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the art of hand embroidery. Born and raised in Hyderabad, Telangana, she learned the craft from her mother at a young age, participating in exhibitions and training programs that shaped her skills. From receiving her artisan card to becoming a mentor for many artisans in Yakutpura and surrounding areas, Asima’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of traditional craftsmanship. Artisan Card No. SRHYC 300984. She attended integrated design workshop from DCH, after the completion she became a master craft person. She completed her schooling from Asifia High School, Hyderabad, Telangana. Her journey with handicrafts began in childhood, learning hand embroidery with her mother, respected Asiya Khatoon, founder of Mahila Sanatkar. From a young age, she actively participated in training programmes and exhibitions, including events organized by the Khan Bahadur Babukhan Foundation. Over the years, she have worded extensively to promote traditional hand embroidery and empower women artisans. Early trainings and experiences 1992 - Conducted training for 25 women’s in Boys Town High School, Jahanuma, Hyderabad, during a month of summer camp. Attended workshops on design development and quality testing programmes in Golconda handicrafts. 2011 - Attended a marketing and packaging workshop at RTC X Roads, Hyderabad. 2012 - Joined Mahila Sanatkar as a training in-charge. 2012 - Completed a 2 month design development workshop from Golconda handicrafts, training 30 candidates in Charminar, Hyderabad. 2015 - Completed a 2 month hand embroidery training from Aleap for 26 candidates in Purani Haveli, Hyderabad. Leadership and achievements For women’s empowerment initiatives while participating in multiple exhibitions. 2021 - Elected as a chair person of Mahila Sanatkar, leading training and production programmes for women artisans. 2022 - Conducted a 3 month workshop in Yakutpura, Hyderabad, training 40 candidates. 2023 - Completed a training programme with 30 candidates in traditional hand embroidery as centre manager. December 2023 – Organised a craft demonstration and awareness programme at Hussain Alam College and Shashidha Vidyalaya, Hyderabad, sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts). 2023–2024 - Successfully completed the Guru Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshan programme. Vision and Impact Asima Birjis continues to inspire the artisan community with her dedication to skill preservation, innovation in design, and women’s empowerment. Through her leadership roles and hand on training, she has mentored hundreds of artisans, ensuring that the heritage of traditional handicraft remains alive for future generations. “This journey is a reminder that with vision, consistency, and determination, success is never out of reach. Asima continues to inspire many, proving that every challenge is an opportunity and every dream is worth pursuing. This success story is not just about achievements, but about the courage to believe and the strength to never give up.”