After two decades as a corporate executive in the chemical industry, Basking Ridge resident Farheen Qadir decided it was time to pursue a long-held dream—one sparked by frequent work trips to Mexico and a growing passion for artisan jewelry. In December 2023, she launched The Mira Shoppe, an online boutique featuring handcrafted sterling silver pieces, all made by women artisans across Latin America.
Qadir’s career included leadership roles at Colgate-Palmolive and BASF, where she supplied personal care giants with ingredients. But the climb to the top came with a cost. “There’s a lot of toxicity at the senior levels of large corporations,” she said. “I wanted something more meaningful.”
During her travels, Qadir discovered Mexico’s vibrant silver jewelry economy and was drawn to its craftsmanship. She envisioned a future where she could sell those pieces—and support the women behind them. That vision became The Mira Shoppe, a business with dual missions: offering unique jewelry and empowering women, from artisan to consumer.
“Even the fine jewelry industry is male-dominated,” Qadir explained. “I work extra hard to find women artisans and help them grow their businesses.” She sources from women in Mexico and Colombia—connections she found through determination, language skills, and local networks.
Qadir also dedicates a portion of profits to support girls’ education, something she credits with changing her own life. “Access to education is the foundation,” she said. “Supporting that is part of my legacy.”
Now a year in, she’s embracing the lessons of small business ownership. While online sales have thrived, vendor markets were hit-or-miss. Going forward, Qadir plans to focus on strategic partnerships with local boutiques as well.
Her efforts have resonated locally. “The community here really connects with the mission,” she said. “Women who’ve had successful careers understand how important it is to give back.”
Though she doesn’t design the pieces herself, Qadir is the driving force behind their reach—and their impact. “My strength is in building businesses,” she said. “And this one is about creating opportunities, telling stories, and helping women shine.”
The Mira Shoppe is based in Basking Ridge and ships across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at themirashoppe.com.
“Women who’ve had successful careers understand how important it is to give back.” - Farheen Qadir