Who we are
Mahoor Association is a non-profit built by artists, for artists — carrying the legacy of the Mahoor gallery from Herat, Afghanistan to Paris.
Our Vision
At MAHOOR Association, our vision extends beyond artistic expression; we aim to cultivate a global community where creativity serves as a bridge between cultures and genders. We see art as a powerful force for social change, empowering women, advocating for equality, and promoting sustainable development. Through our initiatives, we endeavor to preserve cultural heritage, nurture creativity, and foster inclusive spaces where individuals from all backgrounds can flourish. By harnessing the transformative power of art, we aspire to create a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a more harmonious society.
Our Mission
Our mission at MAHOOR Association is to harness the transformative power of art to foster intercultural dialogue, promote gender equality, and advocate for social justice. We strive to provide a platform for artists from diverse backgrounds to share their stories, celebrate cultural diversity, and inspire positive change. Through our artistic initiatives, we aim to challenge stereotypes, combat discrimination, and empower marginalized communities, particularly women and refugees. By promoting creativity, cultural exchange, and collaboration, we seek to build bridges between communities and create a more inclusive and equitable world.
Meet the team
Members of Mahoor Association across Paris, Rome and Frankfurt.
Beatrice Miscopein
A French psychiatrist specializing in children, deeply committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of Afghan women. She founded Mahoor Association to continue the legacy of the art gallery originally led by Nazir Rahgozar in Herat. As president, she fosters and sustains a collective dynamic that supports art and culture, cultural exchange and dialogue — helping refugee artists reclaim their dignity and identity through exile.
Nazir Ahmad Rahguzar
A multidisciplinary artist, painter, calligrapher, musician and art researcher from Herat, Afghanistan. Founder of "Mahoor" in Herat and co-founder of this association in Paris — an independent gallery and platform for contemporary art with a focus on marginalized Afghan narratives. He also heads an online faculty of fine arts for women from Afghanistan, launching September 2025.
Mojibullah Azizi
A musician and music instructor from Herat with over 22 years of experience. Taught music for ten years at the Aga Khan School in Herat, and now runs the "Sa Re Ga" Music School in Frankfurt am Main, keeping Afghan traditional music alive amid migration and exile.
Farid Banerjee
Born in Herat, trained by Indian and Afghan masters and, from 2000, by tabla player Yandat Abhijit Banerjee. Has performed at festivals worldwide, and in 2015 founded the "Hamnoa" Music School in Frankfurt, training many students of the Afghan diaspora.
Fardin Monir
From Herat, an artist in calligraphy, singing and theater, currently studying Global Humanities. Has performed in Rome and Paris. A longtime Mahoor member, he sees art as a medium to connect with the world and explore beauty and creativity.
Sattar Farzam
An artist and art educator from Herat, graduate of Herat University's Faculty of Arts (2006). Founded the "Negar" Art Gallery, active for 17+ years, then managed a gallery in Italy before moving to France, where he exhibited in Avignon in 2024.
Toktam Rahgozar
Based in Paris; previously a Zumba instructor in Afghanistan, now working with children in a kindergarten. Contributes to the performance side of Mahoor's cultural programs, supporting live artistic expression and community participation.
Bibi Gol Azad
Born in Herat, graduate of the Faculty of Painting at Herat University, now studying Global Humanities at Sapienza University of Rome. Practical expertise in mural painting, interior design and color therapy; nearly five years an active Mahoor member.
Ali Ahmad Rahgozar
An Afghan musician, composer and singer based in France, heading the music department at Mahoor's Paris branch. His mission is to express and preserve Afghanistan's musical heritage, and to see freedom, equality and peace for his homeland.
Zhila Boroumand
A multidisciplinary artist and cultural activist with backgrounds in Economics, Management and Dentistry — plus experience in teaching, project management and environmental photography. Committed to preserving and promoting Afghan art and culture.
Elaha Rahgozar
Born in Herat, studying Art and English Literature at Marie Curie School in Paris. Advocates for women's rights through her paintings and educational projects, and takes part in showcasing art, music, dance and cuisine from Herat to Paris.
Niloofar Habibi
A multidisciplinary artist studying Global Humanities at Sapienza University, Rome. Works in miniature painting, gilding, fashion design and acting — viewing Afghan art not as a relic of the past but as a vibrant, evolving force.
Somaye Parsa
Born in Herat, a graduate in Economics and Management passionate about visual storytelling and photography, with professional camera and editing experience. Seeks to connect with fellow creatives and promote the art and culture of Afghanistan.
Sebghatullah Mahmoodi
Born in Herat, studying Global Social Sciences and active with Mahoor's branch in Italy. Committed to preserving Afghanistan's artistic heritage and keeping culture vibrant for future generations across the diaspora.
Elya Rahgozar
Born in Herat, studying Philosophy and Literature at Sapienza University in Rome. For Elya, Mahoor is a platform where Afghan art and identity come alive — she works to keep traditions and stories evolving rather than becoming mere relics.
Sheyda Hashemi
Born in Herat, a philosophy and literature student at Sapienza University of Rome and active cultural advocate. Believes art is a powerful tool for expressing voices and advancing intellectual growth, and works to foster cross-cultural understanding.
Soraya Karimi
Born in Herat, holds a degree in Law and Political Science and was coach and captain of the Afghan National Women’s Handball Team. Now contributes to Mahoor through performance art, fashion and style, expressing identity and resilience.
Sosan Mahmoodi
Artist and active member of the Mahoor Art and Cultural Association.
Shaqayeq Sadeq
Singer and active member of the Mahoor Art and Cultural Association.
Kawkaba Omrani
Fashion designer and active member of the Mahoor Art and Cultural Association.