For more than three decades, Aishath (Shiru) Shirhan, founder of Haajara Feminine Designs, has been at the forefront of preserving the Maldives’ rich textile and embroidery traditions. Based in Malé, Shiru has dedicated her life to reviving and modernizing the intricate craftsmanship behind traditional Maldivian attire—particularly the Kasabu Libaas, Rumaafalhi, and Kinaari jewelry. Her journey intertwines cultural preservation, women’s empowerment, and creative entrepreneurship, reflecting a lifelong devotion to celebrating the nation’s heritage through art.
For more than three decades, Aishath (Shiru) Shirhan, founder of Haajara Feminine Designs, has been at the forefront of preserving the Maldives’ rich textile and embroidery traditions. Based in Malé, Shiru has dedicated her life to reviving and modernizing the intricate craftsmanship behind traditional Maldivian attire—particularly the Kasabu Libaas, Rumaafalhi, and Kinaari jewelry. Her journey intertwines cultural preservation, women’s empowerment, and creative entrepreneurship, reflecting a lifelong devotion to celebrating the nation’s heritage through art.
Shiru’s creative spark was ignited at a young age. Haajara Feminine Designs has since evolved into a tradition-based enterprise that merges heritage with innovation. Shiru’s creations—ranging from Kasabu-inspired necklaces to reimagined Libaas—are now sold through resorts and Authentic Maldives, a government initiative promoting local craftsmanship in Malé. Her brand identity, marked by a white background and borders inspired by the Libaas neckline, symbolizes purity and continuity of tradition. “I wanted my logo to instantly tell people that this is Maldivian,” she explains.
Shiru’s participation in the WIPO Training, Mentoring, and Matchmaking Program on Intellectual Property for Women Entrepreneurs from Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities marked a turning point in her journey. The experience helped her understand the importance of intellectual property (IP) in safeguarding traditional cultural expressions. She has since registered her company, developed a brand strategy, and began the process of securing a trademark for her designs. “Through WIPO, I realized that what I’m doing is unique—and it deserves protection,” she says. “Our traditional attire is more than fashion; it is our identity.”
Looking to the future, Shiru is documenting her knowledge in a coffee-table book that will highlight the history and artistry of Maldivian weaving. She hopes it will serve as both an educational resource and a cultural statement for international audiences. Her recent work even reached new heights when she designed the national attire for Miss Maldives at an international pageant, showcasing traditional Maldivian embroidery on a global stage.
Reflecting on her journey, Shiru shares a message for fellow women artisans:
“Never give up. There’s always something beautiful after hard work. Teach what you know, inspire others, and don’t lose yourself in the process. When you see others create something beautiful from what you’ve shared, that’s success.”
Through her artistry, mentorship, and unwavering passion, Aishath Shirhan continues to weave not only threads of gold and silver, but also the enduring story of Maldivian identity—one that glimmers with resilience, heritage, and hope.
