By Rashi Gupta,
Afsha Jaan, born on March 16, 1994, in Srinagar, Kashmir, has emerged as an inspiring entrepreneur in the region, creating a ripple of change through her startup, Al Rizak Foods. With a BTech degree in Food Technology, Afsha’s journey into entrepreneurship began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, she crafted honey and jams in her home, sharing them with her family and relatives. The response was overwhelmingly positive—her family loved the taste and quality, which led to a wave of encouragement from her teachers and loved ones to take her passion further and launch her own business.
Her products are distinct for their natural and preservative-free ingredients, a rare find in today’s processed food industry. Catering primarily to the younger generation, Afsha’s innovation is apparent in her unique creations, such as saffron-infused comb honey. This product not only highlights the rich heritage of saffron from Kashmir but also features the natural comb of bees, making it a healthy and exotic delicacy. Such innovations piqued the interest of consumers, setting her brand apart from the competition.
Afsha’s big break came when she participated in her first external exhibition at the Sambhav Festival in Jammu and Kashmir. It was here that she networked with other business owners and received valuable feedback from visitors. These connections helped build the foundation for her long-term success, though it also exposed her to the realities of competitive business environments. She faced fierce competition but never wavered in her commitment to her craft.
Working out of her home, Afsha single-handedly produces her products, but her ambitions are much bigger. She dreams of setting up her manufacturing unit, where she plans to create a team of women, fostering women’s empowerment and encouraging them to pursue their passions and startups. Afsha believes that women in Kashmir, and everywhere, can achieve great things when they have the support and determination to follow their dreams.
Afsha Jaan’s remarkable achievements have solidified her position as a Kashmir pioneering entrepreneur. The official launching ceremony of her startup, Al Rizak Foods, was conducted by Honourable Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and Union Minister of Fisheries Shri Parshottam Rupala during the Kissan Mela, marking a significant milestone in her journey. Her accolades include the prestigious Champion Farmer Award 2023 and the Achiever of the Year Award 2023. KVK Srinagar recognized her for her outstanding contributions in food processing. She received the Aaghaz National Entrepreneurship Contest Award in the presence of the Chief Secretary of J&K. Afsha has also been honored with the Award of Excellence from the Agri Industries Vikaas Chamber, the Young Innovator Award* from IIT Delhi and Samsung, and the Women Entrepreneurship Award (UDAAN)* from the Agri Vikaas Chamber, celebrating her inspiring work and dedication.
However, her journey has not been without challenges. Despite being a gold medalist in her course, she was often discouraged from starting a business. Many urged her to continue her studies and pursue a job instead of venturing into an uncertain entrepreneurial path. Additionally, financial constraints and the lack of resources were constant hurdles. One of her biggest setbacks came when another company copied the name of her product, “Acacia Nuties Delight,” a mix of honey and dry fruits that took her ten days to name. But she persevered, remaining patient and optimistic, confident in her unique offerings.
Afsha’s main mission is to create a healthier food environment for the younger generation, ensuring they have access to food free from preservatives and chemicals. She is determined to stay honest to her customers and maintain the authenticity of her products.
She gave a message to aspiring entrepreneurs, Afsha emphasizes the importance of following one’s passion instead of getting caught up in constant competition. She encourages people to trust their instincts and decisions, to never stop chasing their dreams, and to understand that success takes time but is well worth the journey.
Afsha Jaan is not just building a business—she is building a movement for healthier, more natural food choices and creating opportunities for women in Kashmir to lead, innovate, and succeed.
Her entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond honey and jams—she has also ventured into producing herbal teas like rosemary and authentic Kashmiri kahwa. Collaborating with traditional tea makers in Kashmir, she is reviving the rich tea culture of the region. In addition, Afsha is expanding her business into the world of essential oils, focusing on natural and organic products that complement her philosophy of purity and wellness. Her commitment to innovation continues to drive her success as she diversifies her offerings while staying true to her roots.
“Success is not just about reaching your destination; it’s about trusting your journey, following your passion, and lifting others along the way.” – Afsha Jaan