On August 19, 2026, the Afghan Bazaar was held at the Embassy of Afghanistan in Ottawa to mark the 107th Anniversary of the Restoration of Afghanistan’s Independence and celebrate Afghan culture, art, heritage, and women-led entrepreneurship.

The Bazaar brought together Afghan entrepreneurs, primarily women, from diverse sectors, including newcomers to Canada, and showcased Afghan art, traditional crafts, cuisine, products, and professional services.

In his remarks, Ambassador Hassan Soroosh highlighted the legacy of reform, modernization, and citizens’ rights under King Amanullah Khan, as well as the important gains achieved through the efforts of the people of Afghanistan and in partnership with the international community. He noted that the situation under Taliban rule represents a profound departure from that legacy, with Afghanistan facing interconnected humanitarian, human rights, political, and economic crises, with women and girls bearing the greatest burden.

He emphasized that the people of Afghanistan have a future beyond the Taliban and described the Bazaar as a powerful reflection of the resilience, determination, and aspirations of Afghans, particularly women.

Many of the women participating as vendors and entrepreneurs resettled in Canada after 2021. Since their arrival, they have rebuilt their lives, established and grown businesses, and made valuable contributions to their communities and Canada’s diverse economy.

The event was both a celebration of Afghanistan’s National Day and a tribute to Afghan women entrepreneurs. It also provided an opportunity to express gratitude to the Government and people of Canada for welcoming Afghan newcomers and providing them with opportunities to rebuild their lives, pursue their aspirations, and contribute meaningfully to Canadian society.

Other distinguished speakers during the opening and afternoon segments included Mr. David Hill, Deputy Mayor of Ottawa; Ms. Barbara Newbegin, President of CFUW-Ottawa; Mr. Aziz Amiri, President of the Canada Afghanistan Business Council; Mr. Sharif Ghalib, Executive Director of the Ottawa Consultative Process; Governor Abdul Jabbar Naeemi, former Provincial Governor in Afghanistan; Ms. Frances Harding, Co-Convener of UWHAW and Vice-President of CFUW-Ottawa; and Mr. Faizi, representing the Afghan Athletes of Ontario Association.

In their remarks, the speakers reflected on the significance of the occasion and highlighted the resilience, determination, and achievements of Afghan women, particularly those who have rebuilt their lives and established businesses after arriving in Canada. They also emphasized the importance of providing greater support, opportunities, and networks for Afghan women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses and expand their contributions to Canadian society.

The final part of the event included the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation to the following individuals and organizations from the community and among the friends of Afghanistan, in recognition of their remarkable dedication and longstanding contributions to supporting women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, arts and culture, and community engagement.

- Canada Afghanistan Business Council

- Kakars & Pul Media

- Mustafa Homes

- The Right to Learn Afghanistan

- Afghan Canada Youth Council

- Afghan Canadian Capital Society

- Canadian Women’s Empowerment Association

- Canada Humanitarian Initiatives

- Afghan Athletes of Ontario Association

- Mr. Mushfiq Hashimi, Distinguished Afghan Artist

- Ms. Liyah Barekzai, Young Afghan Artist

- Ms. Yalda Sarwar, MC of the Event