Shahnaz Tabatabai

Iranian industrial pioneer who transformed textile manufacturing and empowered female workers in the 1950s

Shahnaz Tabatabai (1915–1992) was a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionized Iran's textile industry while championing women's economic participation. In 1953, she founded Tabatabai Textile Company, the first Iranian business to introduce mechanized looms for carpet weaving. This innovation tripled production efficiency while maintaining traditional Persian design standards. Her factory became a model for worker welfare, providing free healthcare, childcare facilities, and literacy programs for the 800+ women employees.

Tabatabai's 1957 technical manual on modern weaving techniques remains a key resource for artisans. She developed export markets in Europe and North America, making Iranian carpets a global luxury brand. Her 1965 book 《The Art of Persian Weaving》 combined technical expertise with cultural preservation, becoming a bestseller in the Middle East. Despite facing backlash from male-dominated industries, she trained over 200 female managers through her Heritage Vocational School. The Iranian Ministry of Industry honored her with the Industrial Innovation Award in 1970, recognizing her role in creating 10,000+ jobs for women.