Yesterday I took a photo of the Grand Bazaar in Shiraz, Iran. Bazaar-e-Vakil, one of the largest marketplaces, was constructed during the 18th century by Karim Khan Zand, the king of the Zand period.

After graduating in carpet design, this was the first place where I started working. Bazaar-e-Vakil holds a special place in my heart, not just because of my job, but also because it's where I met my first love. He helped me gain experience by working in his uncle's rug gallery. You know, university enhances your theoretical knowledge, but the real teacher is the marketplace where you gain practical skills. I believe the initial steps in my growth in the handmade rug field were guided by the people who put me on the right path. I was fortunate to meet him at the right time and place. Now, he lives in the US, and his memory will always stay with me.