TAPinto Basking Ridge - Nov 27, 2024
The Mira Shoppe: One Year of Empowering Women, Preserving Heritage, and Giving Back
In the heart of New Jersey, one small business is proving that commerce can be a powerful force for change. Founded by Basking Ridge resident Farheen Qadir, The Mira Shoppe celebrates its one-year anniversary as a socially conscious jewelry and accessories brand with a mission: empowering women, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering global education equity.
Farheen’s journey to launching The Mira Shoppe is deeply personal. After years as a chemical industry executive, where she mentored and supported women in advancing their careers, Farheen wanted to channel her passion for empowerment into her next venture. “The Mira Shoppe grew out of that passion,” Farheen explains. “Around the world, women and girls face immense barriers—from limited access to education to societal biases. I wanted The Mira Shoppe to help change that narrative.”
A Local Business with a Global Vision
In just one year, The Mira Shoppe has made an impact both locally and globally. The shop partners with women artisans in Mexico and Colombia to create its collections, celebrating traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Notably, The Mira Shoppe collaborates with the Wayuu tribe in Colombia, a matriarchal society known for its intricate, handwoven bags. Locally, the brand has contributed to community initiatives in collaboration with organizations like the Arts Council of Princeton, the Newark Museum of Art, and Bernards Township.
Perhaps most impressive is The Mira Shoppe’s commitment to education. Through donations to organizations like The Citizens Foundation and CAMFED, the brand has funded 7,500 school days for underprivileged children in Asia and Africa. “Education is the foundation for equality,” says Farheen. “Every purchase from The Mira Shoppe helps break the cycle of poverty and provides opportunities for the next generation.”
Facing Challenges and Breaking Barriers
As a woman-owned, minority-owned business in New Jersey, Farheen has encountered challenges, from being underestimated to navigating assumptions about her business’s legitimacy. Yet she remains steadfast. “It’s not just about selling jewelry,” she says. “It’s about proving that small businesses led by women and minorities can thrive and create meaningful impact.”
The Power of Purposeful Consumerism
The Mira Shoppe resonates with a growing movement toward socially conscious consumerism. “Women are using their purchasing power to make their voices heard,” Farheen explains. “They want to know who they’re supporting and how their purchases make a difference. That’s why our mission and story are central to everything we do.”
Looking Ahead
As The Mira Shoppe enters its second year, Farheen is eager to expand. Plans include introducing a third country’s artisanry to the collection and increasing collaborations with other local women-owned businesses. But at its core, the mission remains the same: to empower women, celebrate heritage, and give back.
The Mira Shoppe’s one-year anniversary is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to the power of community, purpose, and perseverance. For Farheen, it’s a moment to celebrate how far they’ve come and to look forward to an even brighter future.
