Nasrat khalid
# Nasrat khalid

Nasrat Khalid is an entrepreneur, innovator and author. He is the Founder and CEO of Aseel, and is passionate about leveraging technology to drive social impact in international development work. He is known for his expertise in computer networks, system development, technology for development, IT management, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Nasrat has established four organizations, including ITRCA, and has been recognized by the G20, World Bank, ICANN, UNIGF, and the Government of Afghanistan. He has presented in global forums, round table discussions, and conferences and is a TEDx speaker.

## Early Life and Education

Nasrat was born in Logar, Afghanistan, and spent most of his life in Pakistan around refugee camps. From an early age, he envisioned running a technology company in Afghanistan. His passion for computers began during his childhood, and he later became a teacher, offering courses in basic HTML and software development in Afghanistan. Nasrat also partnered with the University of Afghanistan to provide educational opportunities to students.

In the 1990s, Nasrat's parents established refugee schools that served thousands of Afghan families, including his. Even as a child, Nasrat was committed to returning to Afghanistan to use his knowledge to connect his country with the rest of the world.

## Career and Achievements

Nasrat's passion for technology led him to pursue a career in computer science. He started his career as an international development worker, working with various organizations, including AED (now FHI 360), EDC, Chemonics, and the World Bank in Afghanistan, South Asia, and later in DC. During this time, he identified a gap in the market for Afghan artisans to sell their handmade products online and launched Aseel, an e-commerce platform that promotes Afghan art globally.

## Aseel

In 2019, Nasrat Khalid launched Aseel, an integrated e-commerce platform for Afghan artisans to sell products in various Afghanistan provinces with international exposure to sell their work. The word "Aseel" is Afghan for "authentic."

Following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, Aseel's mission changed to assist internally displaced people in cities such as Kabul. Using the company's cash reserves, Aseel began providing shelter, clothing, and food packages to those in need. With fewer humanitarian aid groups in the country, Aseel added an "Emergency Support" category on its platform, making it one of the most reliable platforms for assisting Afghans.

In recognition of his leadership and innovation in international development, Nasrat was awarded the 2022 Andrew E. Rice Award by the Society for International Development, United States (SID-US). His passion for technology and commitment to serving his country and fellow Afghans have made him a respected figure in the international development community.

## Interviews

Refugee Innovators

Hope for Afghanistan: Nasrat Khalid at TEDxKabul

