نویسنده: ریحانه صمیمی ساعت 30: 11 شب است و من طبق عادت همیشه گی پشت بام نشسته و به ستاره ها خیره شده ام! دوباره تلاش میکنم مثبت اندیش باشم ولی این شب درد عمیقی از درون وجود مرا در بر گرفته! بر خلاف دردهای دیگر سوزنک نمی‌زند بلکه همه ی وجودم را آرام آرام نوازش میکند. و چقدر آشناست این درد شیرین گویا دیگر درون قلبم برای همیش رخنه کرده. بغض سنگینی گلویم را گرفته حس میکنم ستاره ها، آسمان، مهتاب همه غمگینند. آری! سه سال می‌گذرد از اینکه من دلتنگ مکتبم هستم... چشمانم را بسته و خودم را پیش آیینه مجسم میکنم شادی در چشمانم برق میزنند، چادرک سفید رنگی بر سر دارم و یونیفورم اتو زده ام این ذوق را دو برابر میکند! گذشته از همه ی دلخوشی ها اولین روز هفته که لباس منظم و اتو زده یی مکتبم را به تن کرده پیش آیینه ایستاده میشدم یکی از قشنگ ترین حس های زنده گی من بود. چشمانم را که دوباره باز میکنم همه جا تاریک است و منم تنها! نگاهم به ساختمان ثابق مکتبم که نزدیک خانه ی مان هست می افتند! به یاد شب های می افتم که دقیقا از همین پشت بام نگاهش کرده و داستان های ترسناک از خودم در می آوردم بعد صبح که میشد همه را به دوستانم قصه کرده و میگفتم: متوجه باشید مکتب مان جن دارد هرگز تنهایی جاهای خلوت نروید! خنده آور بود اینکه همه چه ساده باور می‌کردند و منم غرولند کرده قوه تخیلات ذهنم را تحسین میکردم! من امشب دلتنگ آن خاطرات و خندیدن های بی دغدغه شده ام، تاوان این درد مرا چه کسی پس میدهد؟ آیا حق من این بود؟ که اینگونه قربانی بازی سیاست شوم؛ من دوست داشتم اندکی دیر تر اینقدر بزرگ شوم. قبول دارم در طول این سه سال خیلی چیزها یاد گرفتم، واقع بین تر و مستحکم تر شدم، ولی دیگران چه؟ دختران دیگر؛ آنهایی که در سن پانزده و شانزده سالگی ازدواج اجباری کردند، آنهایی که به زنده گی شأن برای همیش وداع گفتند، آنهایی که دیگر نخندیدند و کلمه رویا را برای همیش به فراموشی سپردند! برایم بگو در این شب چه کسی از خانه ی مان از وطن مان دستان مرا گرفته به چشمانم خیره شده و با گلوی پر از بغض برایم میگوید: درکت میکنم! چه کسی؟ نمیخواهم حاشیه روی کنم ولی چندین دهه از واقعه کربلا میگذرد میبینم مردمی که اصلا امام حسین را ندیده اند چگونه برایش عذا داری میکنند! این وفا داری شأن را تحسین میکنم ولی کاش اندکی به یاد ما هم بودند کاش اینقدر زود همه چیز را فراموش نمی‌کردند‌. انفجارها را، گروه گروه از دست دادن جوان هایمان را، شکستن قلب هایمان را... جمله یی هست میگوید: یکی از سخت ترین حس دنیا اینست دلتنگ کسی باشی که هنوزم اینجاست! آری درست مانند حس این شب مان. من هنوزم در کابلم ولی کابل دیگر در من نیست سه سال می‌گذرد از اینکه ما را از هم جدا کردند... من بیشتر اوقات دردهایم را با نوشتن، رفتن کنار قبرها، گوش سپردن به آهنگ های احمد ظاهر و ساربان تسکین میکنم ولی دیگر کلمات در مقابل شأن کم می آورند، فقط یک موزیک بی کلام میتواند اندکی مرا یاری دهد! یادم می آید سال2022 زمانی در مرکز آموزشی کاج انفجار رخ داد و من تا چند هفته در خودم فرو رفته و حالت روحی بدی داشتم برادرم می‌گفت: میدانی طالبان و داعش زمانی برای یک انفجار برنامه ریزی میکنند حتی فکر افسرده شدن و ناامید شدن من و تو را هم میکنند، دور اندیشی شأن نسبت به اینکه چگونه ضربه وارد کنند بی اندازه بزرگ است! حالا که فکر میکنم آنقدر ها هم دور اندیش نبودند. آنها بعد یک انفجار به از پا در آوردن و نا امید شدن  همه ی ما فکر میکنند ولی عقده یی عمل کردن و مستحکم تر شدن مان چه؟ آیا فکر میکنند؟ نه! امروزه دنیا دنیای مدرنی شده و ضربه وارد کردن به کسی، چیزی، جایی مدرن تر ولی اینها هنوز هم همان تفکر ثابق را دارند. مهم نیست من چقدر درد درون سینه ام دارم این مهم است که هنوز هم دوام آوردم! ما امروز اگر امروز یک سکینه را از دست دادیم بجایش صدها فاطمه ی دیگر ادامه داد. آنها از ما حق مکتب رفتن را گرفتند ولی ما بازهم درس خواندیم، آنها قلم مان را شکستند ولی ما بازهم نوشتیم. بازهم خندیدیدم، رقصیدیم، ترانه خواندیم‌! خواستند زنده گی مان را به یک رنگ سیاه خلاصه کنند ولی رویاهای ما رنگی بودند. من در همین شب و همین جا یک بار دیگر برای خودم قول ادامه دادن و دوام آوردن میدهم چون این فقط من نیستم این دستانی که مینویسند دستان همان دخترانی هست که دیگر ننوشتند! پس به نماینده گی از تمام این دختران هم که شده به رویاهای که مال همه ی ما هست قول رسیدن میدهم. اینکه در نسل بعد از ما هیچ دختری در این سرزمین بخاطر مکتب نرفتن گریه نخواهد کرد و مانند یک انسان واقعی در مملکتش زنده گی خواهد کرد‌، فقط میخواهم یاد آور شوم ما واقعا آنهایی بودیم که میان ویرانی ها همچون نیلوفر آبی سبز ماندیم و این سبز ماندن ها ریشه میخواهد؛ نسل بعد ما نباید بی خیال از کنار قبرهای مان رد شوند...

Originally from Kunduz, Afghanistan, 22-year-old Anqa Hidayat now lives in Virginia, United States, where she is pursuing a degree in political science with a focus on international relations at Bay Atlantic University. Growing up amidst political instability and societal constraints, especially for women, Anqa is deeply committed to advocating for Afghan women and raising awareness about their struggles, particularly under the Taliban regime. In a recent interview with HerStory’s Communication Manager, Sahar Maqsoodi, Anqa shared her journey of growing up in Afghanistan, her passion for writing, her academic pursuits, and her hopes for the future. Sahar: Let's talk about your writing. What inspired you to write articles and research papers about Afghanistan and Afghan women? I’ve read some of your works, and they often focus on the political landscape and policies affecting Afghan women. Can you share more about that? Anqa: My major is political science, which naturally led me to explore the situation in my home country, Afghanistan. I chose political science years ago (even before the Taliban's control of Afghanistan) as a way forward for women’s empowerment and gender equality in my homeland. As a child, I witnessed the stark gender inequalities ingrained in our society through patriarchal norms that considered women and girls lesser than men and boys. These attitudes troubled me deeply, and I would often challenge boys in debates, physical confrontations, or local games—sometimes putting them in their place or at least reaching an equal footing. I realized early on that this was a calling. A voice inside me would say, ‘Hey Anqa, be a leader for yourself and your sisters. Lead them until they achieve equality without discrimination against men.’ That’s why I chose political science—because the only way for Afghan women to overcome their challenges is through women-led politics. My writings, speeches, readings, thoughts, and actions all revolve around gender equality. That’s how I began writing for different platforms, though much of my content is still in my diary, unpublished. At first, I struggled with essay writing, especially during online classes. But one day, I decided to write about my personal journey—how I left Afghanistan and what that experience was like. I ended up drafting over 3,000 words. When I showed it to my dad, he encouraged me to publish it so others could understand the plight of Afghans who left everything behind. Together, my father and I polished the piece, refining the title and expanding on themes such as the constitutional rights of Afghan women and how our lives changed after the fall of Kabul on August 15. Two days later, I received an email from OSUN inviting me to submit articles. With my dad's help, we submitted the draft, and when it was published, the support and praise were overwhelming. Seeing my name online and sharing my story motivated me tremendously. Through her writing, Anqa has built a supportive network, especially among her American friends, who are eager to hear her stories. “When they hear about my writing, they’re always so impressed. They show me new ways to grow and develop,”  says Anqa. Inspired by their support, she continues honing her creative writing skills, with a clear mission: to amplify the voices of Afghan women and highlight their struggles. Growing up in a turbulent environment, Anqa found solace in books and knowledge. Despite the harsh realities around her, she remained dedicated to her education. “Education was my refuge,”  she recalls. “It opened my eyes to the world and the possibilities beyond the confines of my reality.”  Her fascination with politics and history emerged early on, driven by a desire to understand the complexities of her country. Aside from her academic pursuits and activism, Anqa also harbors an interest in business and real estate. She hopes to complete her undergraduate and postgraduate studies in political science. “I have a budding interest in business, particularly real estate, which I see as a future goal. But my primary focus remains on my political science studies,”  she shares. “I’m currently pursuing my bachelor's at Bay Atlantic University and hope to continue with a master’s degree at another institution. Ultimately, I want to earn a PhD, inshallah.” Family plays a crucial role in Anqa’s life. She comes from an open-minded Aimaq family in Afghanistan, who have always supported her goals. Their unwavering encouragement has been a source of strength, especially during difficult times. Despite being separated by distance, she remains closely connected with her family, frequently discussing her experiences and ambitions. Her family’s support has inspired her to keep advocating for women’s rights and education in Afghanistan. “We’re six in the family—two brothers and two sisters—and I’m the eldest. My brother, who recently moved to Los Angeles, is a year younger than me. My mother is a housewife, and my father is the one who supports my education and everything I do. From our family, I’m the only girl pursuing a degree, and that too in political science,” - Anqa Anqa's closing message to Afghan girls is both clear and powerful: “Every dream is valid, and every girl has the right to chase hers.”

#NexusTalk | Episode #4 Sara Barackzay, Afghanistan's first female animator, began her journey in Herat, where she discovered her love for animation and art. Despite facing threats from groups like the Taliban, who opposed her work, she remained committed to her passion. Forced to leave Afghanistan, Sara never gave up on her mission to inspire others. In her conversation with HerStory's NexusTalk, she shares her story, from her early years with a paintbrush to using art as a tool for storytelling and advocating for a future where Afghan women can freely express themselves.

#NexusTalk | Episode #3 Farzana Nawai is an award-winning Afghan actress, singer, and media activist currently settled in Vancouver, Canada. Farzana is widely known for her successful roles in Mina Walking, Soil and Coral, and the series Khat-e-Sewom (The Third Line), broadcast on Tolo TV. In conversation with HerStory's NexusTalk, Farzana walks us through her journey of being born as a refugee in Iran, starting her career in cinema and music in Afghanistan, becoming a refugee again in France and Canada, her activities in Canada, and her aspirations for the future. The conversation is in Farsi, but English subtitles are available. Auto-translation is available in dozens of languages.

#NexusTalk | Episode #2 Hosai Nasullah, the founder and CEO of Eli&Ali in Vancouver, Canada, shares her inspiring journey in a conversation with HerStory. She opens up about what motivated her to start her small business, along with the challenges and opportunities she encountered along the way.

نویسنده: آسمان پارسا من آسمان هستم، دختری از شهرِ رویاها یا همان کابل که دقیق در آستانه ی نزده سالگی‌هایش است و انگار که نود سال زندگی کرده است!از پانزده سالگی شروع به فعالیت‌های رضاکارنه در نهاد‌های مختلف کردم و سالیانِ پار تحت سلطه‌‌ی طالبان در هفده سالگی هایم سند فراغت مکتب را به دست آوردم و یک سال تمام ایفای وظیفه نمودم. هنرِ نویسندگی نیز از زمان هایی در وجودم پدیدار شد که گفتند کابل سقوط کرد؛ این سقوط سرآغاز کلماتِ آسمان بود. دقیق سیزده سالم بود که چیزهایی می‌نوشتم و به نحوی آن‌ها را ناچیز می‌شمردم. نوشته‌های من شامل متن‌ها و ابیاتی بود که دوست شان داشتم و هراس از این داشتم که مبادا کسی بخواند شان یا متوجه شوند که چیزهایی می‌نویسم. این ترس اگر چه مضحک ولی در وجودم زیست داشت. الگوهای من در مسیر نویسنده‌شدن و نوشتن دل واژه‌هایم برخی نویسندگان و اثرهای خارق العاده‌ی آن‌ها هستند که در دنیای کلمات‌شان شاهکار کرده اند. نویسندگانی که حتی با اندک جملات شان احساس می‌کنم من در این جهان هستی چند ملیاردی تنها نیستم و بودند و هستند آدمیانی که در یک بُعد دیگر این جهان زیسته اند. الگوی من آن نویسنده گانی هستند که احساس تنهایی‌ام را به دل‌گرمی احساسِ جمعیت بودن تبادله کردند؛ آن عده نویسندگانی که با هر اثر شان ساعت‌ها تفکر می‌کنم و روزها به عظمت جملات شان می‌اندیشم. آن‌ها تعداد اندکی نیستند که نام ببرم، آن‌ها جمعیت نویسندگانی هستند که بسا خرسندم که آسمان شدم و جملات شان را خواندم و نوشتم. اولین نوشته ی که روی کاغذ نقش بست را به یاد ندارم یا هم شاید نابود اش کردم ولی اولین کاغذ کتابچه‌ی نوشته‌هایم حکایت هایی از حال و احوالات اندرون خودم بود و تفکراتم. داستان‌های شب و درد‌هایی که جز خود آدمی و روح سرگردان‌اش هیچ کس دیگری پی‌ نخواهد برد و آن‌چنان  نخواهند دانست. تکه ی از آن متن را که در اولین صفحه جا گرفته است اینجا برای‌تان مینویسم: و «شب» دو حرف ساده نیست !! عمق دردهاست،  صدای غصه ها و فریاد هایی که از عمق قلب‌های مان جان می‌گیرد و هم‌چو دانه‌های قشنگ تجلای رنگین کمان فردا می شوند. ساده نگذریم ؛ شب همان اسطوره‌ی پرهیاهوست که دفن اش کرده ایم در میان خسته گی‌های مان ..!! و زنجیرهایی که به دست و پای دل‌های مان بسته اییم ، شبانگاه بزم آزادی دارند. تمام آن سیاهی را با خیال کسی قدم میزنند که مبادا آفتاب فردا برخیزد و خاطرات اش را دانه دانه برچیند ..!! آری! این شب است ، همان حکایت غم انگیز! همان وابسته به طلوع فردا! و همان آواز غصه‌ها! به باور من کلمات از دل آن قلمی بر روی صفحه‌های سپید می‌نشیند که صاحب‌اش جهان را از بُعد دیگری میبیند و نگاه‌های به ژرف ترین قسمت‌های ماهیت زندگی‌اش داشته باشد. پر معنی ترین کلمات و در نهایت جملات از زبان آدم‌هایی بیرون میزنند که زندگی، دشواری و سهل انگاری‌های شان تجربیاتی را به آنها آموخته باشد! و چشم‌های فراتر از دید اطرافیان شان داشته باشند که جزئیات را ژرف بنویسند. گاهی هم این اندوخته‌ها اندوه ناک هستند و گاهی خموش و بی صدا. هنر نویسندگی نیز میان دست‌ها و قلم ام از جایی نشات گرفت که به گذشته نگاه کردم. به کودکی‌های نکرده ام، به دنیای بزرگ سالانی که من با قدم های شش سالگی‌هایم واردش شده بودم. به آدم‌هایی که هر یک تجربیات و اندوخته‌هایی برای دل و دل واژه‌های قلم آسمان به جا ماندند و پژواک صدایِ کابل و کابلیان، شهری که من در دامان اش زاده شدم و جوانی هایم را نکرده برای آزادی جنگیدم. این هنر دقیق پانزدهم اگست جان‌ها از من گرفت و به خود افزود. کلماتم اندوه ناک شد و اندوه ناک باقی ماند. وقتی نوشتم کابل سقوط کرد دانستم نوشته‌هایم آنچنان جان گرفته اند که قادر اند مرا به گریه بیندازند! و امید‌هایی از آینده گواهی بدهند که هستم و هنوز مینویسم، اکنون برای شما. سقوط کابل تغییرات بی شماری را در زندگی همه مردم افغانستان ایجاد کرد، و من و دوستانم هم از این قافله جا نماندیم. درست مدتی پس از سقوط کابل و برگشت دوباره طالبان به افغانستان، نظریه شروع کار تحت نام یادگار ایده‌ی تیم سه نفره یی بود که هدف مان ایجاد طرح‌های یادگاری و تحفه های دست ساز برای علاقمندان این سبک کاری بود. شرایط فعلی و حکم حکومت طالبان مبنی بر مسدود شدن کار طبقه ی اناث در دفاتر شخصی و دولتی و موسسات غیرانتفاعی یکی از اصلی ترین دلایلی به شمار می‌رود که من و اعضای تیم مارا برای ایجاد یک مرکز فروشات انترنتی ترغیب نمود. ثانیا، نوعیت کاری و طرح‌های یادگار شکل منحصر به فردی را ایجاد می‌کنند که مصمم بر این شدیم که این طرح‌های منحصر به فرد را در کابل نیز قابل اجرا بسازیم. تا بتوانیم زمینه ساز انتخاب‌های خاص در راستای فرهنگ تحفه دادن و ثبت خاطره‌های قشنگ برای هم وطنان خود نیز باشیم. البته که شروع تجارت برای طبقه ی اناث داخل کشور تحت شرایط فعلی کار ساده ی نیست و دشواری های بسیاری را در پی دارد و خواهد داشت. ما این دشواری‌هارا یک بخش تجارت خود می‌دانیم که قرار ذیل برایتان شرح میدهم. در کشوری مثل افغانستان و میان پایتخت‌نشینانی که هنوز کار، شروع وظیفه، تجارت یا هر نوع مصروفیت بیرون یا داخل خانه برای زنان و دختران که مُزد‌ی در پی داشته باشد به نحوی تابو است و هیچ نوع تغییری در ذهنیت مردم ایجاد نشده است، صحبت من این‌جا از اکثریت مردم این اجتماع است که طبق چشم دید خودم برایم ثابت شده است! اقلیت کمی هنوز به این باور هستند که دختران و زنان نیز حق کار و آزادی های شان را دارند. البته صحبت اساسی این‌جاست که ذهنیتی هم اگر ایجاد شده بود در پی این سه سال نابود شد و مردم چنگ انداخته اند به تفکرات نیاکان و رسوم منحرف شده ی ذهنیت‌های عام. حکومت فعلی نام دیگر دشواری‌ست که نمی‌دانم چطور از واقعیت‌های این دشواری بنویسم! ممنوع بودن رفت و آمدهای خارج از کشور بدون محرم شرعی بخش اساسی این دشواری است. ما برای اکثریت مواد و ساختار یادگار های مان نیاز داریم تا مواد اساسی آن را از کشور همسایه وارد نماییم ولی بنابر حکم رژیم طالبانی اکتفا کردیم به مواد دست داشته یی که به سختی‌های زیاد میتوان سراغ شان را از بازا‌ر هایی چون مندوی کابل پیدا کرد که تعداد شان نیز اندک اند. ما برای مکالمات‌مان با مشتری‌ها و خریداران یادگار شماره‌ی سیم کارتی فعال  را مد نظر گرفته اییم تا بتوانیم سرعت کار و سهولت ایجاد نماییم، قابل یادآوری است که در بیست و چهار ساعت یک شبانه روز با مزاحمت‌های مردمی روبرو می‌شویم که تماما از طبقه ی ذکور اند و چون می‌دانند در راس کار دختر خانم ها می‌باشند به این آزار و اذیت‌های تلفنی ادامه می‌دهند، البته که این بخشی از فرهنگ مردمانی است که داد از هوشیاری و تمدن مسخره و ناچیز شان میزنند ولی هنوز که هنوز است قوه ی ادراک ماهیت زندگی و شخصیت شان را به دست نیاوردند. اغلب این قسمت ماجرا برای من غم انگیز و غم ناک است. ما برای پیشبرد و رسیدگی خوب به مشتریان خود نیاز به مرکز حضوری فروشات مان داریم که بنابر دستورات حاکمان فعلی، ترس ها، ریسک پذیری خانواده، و در انزوا قرار گرفتن ماهیت مونث بودن در سرزمینی چون افغانستان نمیتوانیم این بخش را به واقعیت گره بزنیم. این دشواری ها خود زمینه ساز تبدیل در بند بودن به خلاقیت های ماست. از این زاویه نگاه می‌کنیم تا دوام بیاوریم و رمقی برای ادامه دادن با تمام این دشواری ها را داشته باشیم. « یادگار» آن‌چنان که از نامش پیداست یادگار و یادآور روز هایی خواهد  بود که چه سخت زندگی های مان را زیسته اییم و با هزار و یک رویا دفن شدیم در دل بلند پروازی های مان. «یادگار» همان اسم قشنگی خواهد بود که برای مان یاد آور شود چگونه از بند انزوای دردناک بلند شدیم و حداقل کاری که در توان دست های هنرمند ما بود را به واقعیت مبدل کردیم. آرام و قرار نگرفتیم. جنگیدیم! آن هم سخت جنگیدیم و خلاقیت را از دل بی همه چیز بودن های مان بیرون کشیدیم. من «یادگار» را در تصورات و خط‌های واقعیت ام در بلندای اسم اش میبینم. تا آن زمانی که یادگار دیگر پشت شیشه‌های موبایل کاربران باقی نماند و مبدل شود به خاص ترین مرکز تهیه ی تحایف و هدایای دست سازی که بوی عشق و محبت و همدلی میدهند. «یادگار» را در بزرگترین شهرهای این کره ی خاکی می‌بینم که دختران‌اش دیگر کنج اتاق شان کارگاه ندارند و خیلی آشکارا توانستند به صدها هم نوع خودشان دست یاری دراز کنند و یا هم در راستای تحقق آرزو‌های‌شان کار کنند. من «یادگار» را نه تنها در کابل، بلکه در بلخ، تخار، بدخشان، نورستان، قندهار و بغلان این وطن می‌بینم. من «یادگار» را در سی و چهار ولایت این دیار با آزادی دختران‌اش و هم‌دلی همراهان‌اش می‌بینم. از یادگار و هنر نویسندگی‌ام که کمی دور شوم معمولا روز‌های تکرار در تکرار ام را با کتاب خواندن و نوشتن میگذرانم. هر دو به نحوی اندکی آرامش به روز هایم می افزاید و زندگی برای فردا را قابل تحمل تر می‌سازد. با رنگِ عمیق حجاب سراپا سیاهم نیز گاه و بیگاه کوچه‌های کارته چهار را قدم میزنم و با یک کتاب جدید به دست به کنج اتاقم برمی‌گردم. تا از یاد نبرم در اوج سال‌های حکومت جهل ما نسل کتاب به دستانیم که هر سطر زندگی‌مان جلوه‌های روشن و مبارز آینده خواهد بود. سمت دیگر هم خانواده ام است. همان خلاصه ی داشته ها و نداشته های یک انسان. در میان خانواده‌ی هفت نفری من، هیچ یک از آن‌ها نمیدانند که آسمان می نویسد و نوشته هایش رنگ و بوی از تفکرات‌اش هست. ولی آنها همان‌هایی هستند که در تمام مسیر، تا همین آستانه‌ی نزده سالگی‌هایم حامی و حمایت‌گر دخترشان باقی ماندند و مشوق لحظه‌های زندگی‌ام بودند و هستند. انکار نباید کرد که خانواده‌بودن در کشوری مثل افغانستان دشواری‌های خودش را دارد ولی شاکرم که آن‌ها برایم دست های حامی بودند که هر وقت نیاز شان داشتم دلگرمی قشنگی ایجاد کرده اند از بابتِ پناهگاه بودن و شانه ی امن بودن شان. و سپاسِ مادرِ و پدرم که مرا، مادران و پدرانی که یک نسل، رزمندگانِ شجاعی را تربیت کردند که میدانم در آینده ی نه چندان دور افتخار خواهند شد. کمی هم از آرزو‌ها و رویاهایم برای بعد از بازگشایی مکاتب و دانشگاه ها در افغانستان برایتان بگویم. رویاهای من، آرزو ها. وقتی به این دو کلمه می اندیشم تصویر سیاه و سپیدی روبروی چشم هایم ظاهر میشود که انگار از صد ها سال پیش تنها همین عکس شان را با خود دارم نه جسم زنده و نفس های‌گرم شان را. با آن هم من از این عکس سیاه و سپید به یاد دارم که می‌خواهم با به دوش کشیدن تمام آزادی هایم، با به دست گرفتنِ شور و شوق و اشتیاق ام، وسط دانشگاه کابل، روبروی دانشکده ی حقوق و علوم سیاسی بایستم و به این عکس سیاه و سپید و آرزو‌های مادرم برای دخترش جانِ دوباره بدهم. می‌خواهم قانون بدانم تا برای حق و عدالت و حقوق صلب شده از شروع نوجوانی‌هایم دوباره بجنگم. تا مبادا هیچ دختری در آستانه‌ی هفده سالگی هایش حق خوانش و خواندنِ کتاب هایش صلب نشود و او در حسرت چادر سپید مکتب‌اش اشک‌ها نریزد. می‌خواهم قانون بدانم و به رویاهای نوجوانی های مادرم سلامی دوباره بکنم و با افتخار به دست بوسی آن دست‌هایی بشتابم که در این روز های سیاه آنچنان برایم یاد آوری میکند که آرزوی دانشکده ی حقوق از یاد هایم نرود. میخواهم قانون بدانم تا برای حق و عدالت و حقوق صلب شده از شروع نوجوانی‌هایم دوباره بجنگم. تا مبادا هیچ دختری در آستانه‌ی هفده سالگی‌هایش حق خوانش و خواندنِ کتاب‌هایش صلب نشود و او در حسرت چادر سپید مکتب اش اشک ها نریزد. می‌خواهم قانون بدانم و به رویاهای نوجوانی‌های مادرم سلامی دوباره بکنم و با افتخار به دست بوسی آن دست‌هایی بشتابم که در این روز های سیاه آنچنان برایم یاد آوری می‌کند که آرزوی دانشکده ی حقوق از یادهایم نرود. و در اخیر، منحیث دختری که این درد را زندگی می‌کنم و نفس می‌کشم، آنچنان که هنوز وسط جاده‌های کابل قدم برمی دارم برای تمام دختران این سرزمین می‌خواهم بنویسم: اگر می‌خواهید اشک بریزید برای ساعت‌ها، انجام اش دهید. اگر می‌خواهید دردمندی تان را فریاد بزنید، انجام اش دهید. اگر می‌خواهید به قوی بودن ادامه ندهید، پناه ببرید به آغوش خودتان و برای چندی قوی نباشید. ولی پس از تمام اشک‌ها، دشواری ها، فریاد ها، قوی نبودن ها؛ استوار، آن‌چنان برخیزید و میان آرزوهای تان زندگی کنید، آنچنان به علاقه مندی‌های تان چنگ بزنید که انگار آن اشک ها شوری های قدرت تان بوده و آن فریاد ها شعله های آتشینِ قوتِ درون تان و آن یک آغوش چادرِ غیرتِ آرزو‌های تان. من و شما پیله هایی هستیم که روزی پروانه خواهیم شد. من و شما کاربن هایی هستیم که تحت فشارِ روز های دردمند مان به الماس های کمیاب این سرزمین مبدل خواهیم شد. خدا قوت!

#NexusTalk | Episode #1 Note: The show is in Farsi but has English subtitles. Auto translation is also available in tens of languages. Maryam Masoomi is the leader of the Sound of Afghanistan (SA) music group in Saskatoon, Canada. She works as a Youth Programs Coordinator with the Saskatoon Open Door Society, a settlement organization that helps newcomer refugees integrate and start new lives in Saskatoon. When the Taliban took control of Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, Maryam, who was then the assistant of the SA music group in Afghanistan, played a crucial role in coordinating the evacuation of nearly 200 at-risk Afghans to Canada. Now calling Canada home, Maryam is known for her active engagement in social activities within the Afghan community and beyond in Saskatoon.

Born and raised in Kabul, Afghanistan, Zhala Sarmast recently graduated from Yale-NUS College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physical Sciences, with a concentration in Chemistry, and a minor in philosophy. She is the co-author of two books, Redefining the Rules and #MyVoice (Vol. 7), and an active member of Afghanistan's National Women's Cycling team. Zhala is also a passionate musician, and she advocates for social change through her diverse interests. Currently the Communications, Technical Content & Marketing Strategist at SepPure Technologies in Singapore,  Zhala spoke to HerStory's Communications Manager last week. She walked us through her inspiring journey, sharing how she balanced her busy schedule as a school student in Kabul, pursuing high academic dreams with her love for music, media, and cycling, amongst other responsibilities. Zhala joined the Afghanistan Cycling Team in 2013, initially unaware of its existence as the team kept a low profile due to safety concerns. She learned about it and was introduced to the team while attending a concert and cultural event at the French Institute in Kabul. Despite initial reluctance from her family due to the country’s security situation, she eventually made it to the team. "I did not know the team existed because, back then, there was only a little coverage. The team also kept a low profile, at least around 2013, understandably because of all the safety concerns and issues associated with women’s sports. There used to be a lot of concerts and cultural programs in Kabul around that time. I was attending the Sound Central Festival when I went to backstage to explore and see what was going on. There were many booths and organizations representing their work when I encountered the cycling team. I was pleasantly surprised and tried to learn more about it.  I was, then, introduced to the coach and was surprised that this team was active." - Zhala Sarmast Cycling was arguably considered a taboo for girls at the time, and thus, it was not openly welcomed by many around the city. Thus, Zhala and her team were constantly training in the outskirts of the city and districts, such as Salang and Bagram to avoid crowds and potential attacks from people.   Zhala later made it to the national team, and she participated in many national and international competitions, including the South Asia Championships in India, the L’Albigeoise in France, and the Afghan Women’s Road Championship in Switzerland, amongst many others. Due to her demanding academic and professional life, the Afghan Women’s Road Championship was the last competition in which Zhala took part, but she hopes to restart her sports activities soon. Zhala's diverse interests in sciences, sports, media, and music have profoundly shaped her career path and current endeavors. Thinking back upon her journey, she reflects on the privileges she had in pursuing her passions, acknowledging the limited opportunities many girls face in Afghanistan. Recognizing the impact even small acts can have, Zhala emphasizes the importance of advocating for women's rights and leveraging one's platform to empower others, particularly in scarce opportunities. Sahar: How has your diverse range of interests, from sciences to sports to media and music, influenced your career path and the work you do today, particularly your focus on women empowerment? Zhala:  I am at the very beginning of my professional career, and for sure, all my activities have influenced what I do today. Growing up, I was immensely inspired by my family’s deep involvement in media and television, and that’s how I started growing an interest in media and journalism. I later worked with National TV, Ariana News, Zawia Media, and many other media outlets which expanded my views and interests. At the same time, I gradually developed an interest for the hard sciences, particularly chemistry and physics, which are the subjects I, then, pursued in college. Given that I had a strong background in media and journalism, and was passionate about the hard sciences at the same time, I was lucky enough to land a job that allowed me to concentrate on both. Sports and music have also always been of great importance to me. My family has always been deeply involved in music and protecting the musical heritage of Afghanistan. For instance, my grandfather Ustad Saleem Sarmast founded Afghanistan’s first symphony orchestra amongst his many other historical accomplishments. Later, after the first Taliban regime had silenced the country for years, my uncle returned to Afghanistan as the first Afghan to ever earn a PhD in music. He founded Afghanistan’s National Institute of Music (ANIM), talking about which is beyond the scope of our interview. So, although music has been a passion I’ve been mostly pursuing on the sidelines, it is something that has run in my family and that I love very deeply. So, I think one way or another, all of my engagements and activities have shaped the path I am pursuing today, but, like I said, I am at the very beginning of trying to figure out my career path, and I am, thus, trying to navigate through all my activities to see if I can consolidate them in the best possible way.   About women's empowerment and activities of social impact, I think we all need to try to commit to such initiatives regardless of where we are, who we are, and what we do. Observing the situation in Afghanistan, particularly for women, should be sufficient enough for us to learn that we need to speak up for human rights. No matter what we do, those of us who have had the opportunity to get a good education or find employment or other opportunities abroad have a lot to give back to our community. Unfortunately, Afghanistan is in such an indescribable place today that even the smallest contribution makes the biggest impact, and we need to be cautious not to overlook that.   Zhala was also a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016 for her exceptional efforts and dedication to empowering women through sports in Afghanistan.   Zhala:  We were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016 for our efforts to empower women through sports. I see great potential in the power of sports. When I first joined Afghanistan’s National Cycling Federation, it was incredibly challenging. Every training session came with its set of challenges involving verbal abuse and physical attacks. Some of these attacks have been so severe that they have even left some of my teammates living with life-long injuries. Regardless, when I fast forward to 8 years later after I joined the team, I see the great impact that we had as a team. If we compare 2013 to 2021, we’d see great change. By 2021, we had many girls riding bicycles for fun or as a means of transportation. It was much more normal than when we first started. We can also observe similar progress in different areas in Afghanistan.   Sahar:  Definitely! The cycling and other teams, like the women's football team in Afghanistan, brought significant changes in our communities and instilled hope in our people, particularly our girls, enabling them to envision participation in such endeavors. Moving to the next question, how did you and do you now balance your interests and responsibilities, such as cycling, music, and your professional career? Zhala: It was definitely not easy. When I think back of my high school years in Afghanistan, I cannot believe that I managed to focus on so many things. As a student, I would wake up at 4:30 AM for my cycling training. By 7:30, I had to be at the Goethe Institute for my German language classes. I would then go to school by 9, end school by 2:00, and go to Ariana News where I worked by 3:00 pm. I worked until 9:00 pm. When I returned back by 9:30 pm, I would study for a few hours, do my homework, and rest. It was very difficult, but because the impact was tangible and I enjoyed the work, I loved every second of it all.   I think I still struggle with trying to balance all of these activities. It is difficult to manage three significantly big goals each of which requires a lifetime of commitment. I think I know that the key is prioritizing, and I have done that to an extent, but I am still trying to learn to navigate through this.   Zhala has also co-authored My Voice Volume 7, where her story focuses more on her work for Afghanistan. She wanted to keep Afghanistan in the spotlight amidst all the challenges and at a time when the country has been pushed to the sidelines. Zhala finds it crucial to keep talking about Afghanistan, raising our voices for what matters, and highlighting human rights violations. The more we talk about it, the better. We have a platform that millions of women in Afghanistan do not have, and it's our responsibility to use it to raise awareness and hopefully make an impact. - Zhala Music has been a powerful and influential tool not only in promoting social justice but also in bringing Afghan people together, especially after the collapse of the Taliban's first rule in 2001 and before their return to power in 2021. Zhala elaborates on the intersection between music and social activism by drawing upon Afghanistan's musical landscape over the past few decades. She highlights music's potential to positively impact society, serving as a tool that fosters healing. However, she also laments the current state in Afghanistan, where music, despite its therapeutic power, is illegal and banned. "And if we take a look at the impact that music has had historically, and particularly after the first Taliban regime, we can see the substantial impact it had across Afghanistan in bringing people together & nurturing talents and career paths. Following the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, Afghanistan experienced a significant revival of its musical traditions and achievements. Afghan musicians, both those who had remained in the country and those returning from exile, worked incredibly hard to restore and advance the nation’s rich musical heritage. The establishment of institutions like the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) was a key moment in this cultural revival. ANIM provided comprehensive music education and became a symbol of hope and progress across the nation. Additionally, the country’s groundbreaking musical achievements were historical highlights, such as the formation of the Zohra Orchestra, the first all-female orchestra in Afghanistan, which gained international acclaim and showcased the resilience and talents of Afghan women, consequently, the country also made history by being the region’s first nation nurturing female orchestra conductors. These efforts have been recognized internationally, and hence were awarded many prestigious awards, such as the Polar Music Prize in 2018, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of Music”. Beyond ANIM, the Afghan music scene saw a flourishing of talent and innovation through various platforms and programs. Television shows like "Afghan Star" and “The Voice Afghanistan”, popular singing competitions, provided a stage for aspiring musicians to showcase their talents and reach national fame. The show not only entertained but also inspired a new generation of artists, promoting diverse musical styles and enabling a sense of unity and national pride. Unfortunately, years later, Afghan people are once again facing a similar oppressive reality. Music is banned, and those who listen to or make music are threatened. Since the Taliban's takeover in 2021, many musicians have been killed, and many more have been forced to flee the country. Those who have sought refuge abroad are struggling to rebuild their lives from scratch, often without the resources to continue their musical careers. The trauma experienced during the previous Taliban regime is being relived, causing immense cultural and personal loss”, says Zhala Sarmast.   Zhala parallels the challenges faced in music with those in other realms, such as cycling, highlighting the common barriers of family dynamics, economic constraints, and social disparities. Beyond her professional engagements, Zhala also finds joy and balance through her personal interests. She engages in activities such as cycling, drawing, and playing music with friends. Sahar:  Let's move beyond your professional life and explore your personal life. In your free time, tell us a little bit about your hobbies and interests.  Zhala:  I cycle a lot in my free time. Unfortunately, though I love living in Singapore, the country is small and not ideal for cycling. I still do cycle. Then, of course, there is always music. I play quite a lot of music in my free time and sometimes get together with friends for it. I used to play music with my friends in Afghanistan, but unfortunately, now that we are scattered all around the world, the only way for us to make music together is virtually, so I try to do that sometimes as well. I also read quite a bit, draw, and try to explore new coffee shops. Sahar:  That is brilliant. Can you also briefly tell us about your family? How has your family influenced your journey, and if you name one person, who is the one person you admire the most? Zhala:  My family has been the cornerstone of my journey, providing unwavering support and invaluable encouragement at every step. I'm particularly grateful for the profound influence of two remarkable individuals: my mom and my uncle, Dr. Ahmad Sarmast. My mom, an electrical engineer by training, faced immense challenges as a single mother raising four children in Afghanistan after losing my dad to cancer when I was five. Her unwavering determination to provide us with the best opportunities despite the odds is a constant reminder of the resilience and bravery of Afghan women. Her life is a testament to the indomitable spirit that inspires me daily. My other inspiration, my uncle Dr. Ahmad Sarmast, has left an indelible mark on my academic and personal choices. He has not only pursued his passion for music but has also dedicated himself to reviving Afghanistan's cultural heritage. After earning his PhD in music at Australia’s Monash University, he returned to Afghanistan and the impact of his work since his return is so significant that I could talk about it for days. His resilience, bravery, passion, and advice have constantly guided me forward. Your strength, resilience, and courage are immeasurable. Remember that your voice, your dreams, and your rights matter deeply. Stay connected with one another, support each other, and hold onto hope. Make the world see you, stand with you, and believe in your power to inspire change.

Robina grew up in the beautiful city of Mazar-e-Sharif, where she discovered herself, cultivated hobbies, and fell in love with writing. She would spend days after school writing to clear her mind, articulate her thoughts, and enjoy her talent. Forced to leave Afghanistan, she now resides in Germany, where she continues advocating for her peers' right to education back home and runs a non-profit organization providing free online education to them. Only a few weeks before the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, rumors spread that the Taliban were closing in on Mazar-e-Sharif, Robina's hometown. At 16, she felt scared for her safety and that of her family. “I remember my last day of school in Mazar-e-Sharif. I didn't have a good feeling that day; I wanted to spend more time with my friends, stay at school longer, and see all the roads on my way home. I felt like I was about to leave the city the next day,” says Robina, her voice trembling with emotion. Upon arriving home, she found her necessary belongings, including her clothes, packed. “I have booked a flight ticket for you,” her mother told her, asking her and her sister to leave Mazar-e-Sharif. It was a shocking event she had not expected. “I have an exam tomorrow, Mom,” Robina protested. “You either have to leave, or you will be married to a Taliban soldier if they arrive in the city,” her mother replied. The Taliban had forced many girls into marriage, and with her family's background in civic activities and journalism, Robina's and her sister’s safety was at risk. After discussing the threats posed by the Taliban's potential control of Mazar-e-Sharif, Robina and her sister reluctantly agreed to leave for Kabul. They assumed it could be the best option amid many uncertainties. “When I was packing my belongings the night before my flight, I wondered what to do with my mini-trunk where I kept all my writings, which I hoped would one day become a book,” explains Robina, who had been passionate about writing since the 5th grade. “It was difficult to leave it behind. I could only take a notebook of my writings with me to Kabul.” Unforeseen Fall: Adjusting to Life in Kabul “I wasn’t doing well at all,” says Robina, worried about her education and leaving school. “For the week that schools were open, and schoolgirls were attending their exams, I watched them from the kitchen window of the place where we were staying in Kabul,” she explains, describing how painful and heartbreaking it was for her. Robina had just settled in the city, becoming familiar with its workings, when Kabul fell in August 2021. “As I watched the President flee the country on the news, it felt like our hope was instantly destroyed. The news took us back to 20 years ago when our mothers were not allowed to get an education. I couldn’t believe it at all,” narrates Robina. “For a while in Kabul, I didn’t want to study at all. I felt completely hopeless and life was dark,” recalls Robina. “I started picking up my notebook and writing,” she says, trying to comfort herself, believing that things would get better and that she could go back to school in Mazar and reunite with her friends. When the chaos subsided slightly, Robina enrolled in a tutoring center and began taking classes. She found the people and her classmates in Kabul to be friendly. Although it wasn't easy, with time, Robina accepted what had happened. Despite the adverse situation, she knew she could not stay silent. “I was trying not to let the barriers affect me,” Robina resumed writing about her thoughts and feelings during those challenging times. Amid shattered dreams and fading hopes, she wanted to share hope for the future with her community in Kabul. She reached out to media outlets, despite Taliban restrictions on women appearing on TV, to talk about potential opportunities and give hope to other girls that even if they were banned from school, they could find alternatives to shine. Robina was interviewed by well-known media outlets in the country, discussing her passion for writing. While in Kabul, Robina learned about an online school where she enrolled as an 11th-grade student. She took steps to raise awareness about this opportunity for other girls who were out of school under the Taliban. “I was going to a tutoring center and spreading information about this opportunity for other girls,” she connected with the online school organizers to encourage girls to enroll. “I worked voluntarily with the school, connecting with girls across the country, even in remote areas,” says Robina, who helped girls with basic digital literacy. Exile in Pakistan: Continuing the Fight With the Taliban imposing more restrictions on women, Robina had to leave Kabul and move to Pakistan with her family. While leaving her country was another painful experience, she was more determined than ever to make a difference. “Upon my first day in Pakistan, I went out looking for tutoring centers teaching Afghan refugees,” Robina explains. “I found a center and started teaching English to Afghan refugees.” In Pakistan, Robina joined political discussions on social media platforms such as Twitter Spaces, where politicians, activists, and even Taliban members participated. She continued to be interviewed by media outlets about the situation of Afghan girls being out of school. “I wanted my voice to be heard.” Robina decided to take action. After discussing the idea with her family, she created Girls on the Path of Change (GPC), a network and platform to help Afghan girls support each other. “I created the social media pages and GPC’s logo,” explains Robina. “I began with an online session where schoolgirls could share their stories, hopes, achievements, and challenges.” She shared an announcement in WhatsApp groups she was part of. “Twenty girls from Ghazni, Kabul, Ghour, Balkh, and Baghlan joined the session,” Robina says, explaining how it encouraged her. “We want to stay connected and work together,” the girls told Robina, illustrating how the network grew as they brought more girls into the GPC network. Now, Robina holds online classes with volunteers from around the world, all working together with the belief that small actions can lead to great results. After 15 months in Pakistan, Robina and her family finally moved to Germany. “I know the journey ahead is filled with challenges, but there are also opportunities which I am grateful for.”

Lamar Zala Gran is the founder and president of Empowering Afghan Women (EAW), a nonprofit organization serving young Afghan women by providing them with online classes and educational resources to thrive and acquire essential knowledge for their future careers, amidst the Taliban ban on girls over the age of 12 from attending school. Lamar is an education, women's rights, and youth activist and student at Berea College in Kentucky in the United States where she continues to expand her knowledge and skills to serve her mission better. Lamar grew up in Kabul, where she witnessed firsthand the obstacles that hindered access to education, including poverty, cultural norms, and security concerns. Her journey as an activist is deeply rooted in her dedication to education rights, especially for Afghan girls and women. Since the fall of Kabul in 2021, she has been actively raising awareness about the situation of women in Afghanistan and has met with figures such as Hillary Clinton and the U.S. Ambassador in Doha. In her spare time, Lamar finds solace in cooking Afghan dishes, exploring music, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking. In her conversation with HerStory's Communications Manager, Sahar Maqsoodi, Zala offers an engaging look into how her activism began, sharing her personal experiences, her driving passions, and her hopes for the future. Maqsoodi: Please briefly introduce Lamar to us. Gran: I was raised in an educated family in Kabul, Afghanistan. I graduated from high school there and then enrolled at the American University of Afghanistan (AUAF). Currently, I am running EAW and am a first-year political science student at Berea College in Kentucky. For the past four years at EAW, we have been teaching English to young women. However, due to the Taliban takeover, we shifted to online classes covering subjects like English, computer skills, math, and various workshops on capacity building and leadership. We aim to equip them with essential knowledge for their future careers, especially amidst the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. Maqsoodi: You are a women's rights activist, and your activities on social media speak to that. Please tell us a little about your journey in activism and how it started. Gran: I started my activism journey as an education rights activist, which has been challenging in Afghanistan's current situation. Being a female activist is often considered taboo in our society. When I founded my nonprofit, I researched the educational challenges faced by girls and women, including poverty, full-time labor, child marriage, and security concerns, all leading to high dropout rates. During the republican government, literacy rates were higher, but now they're declining, exacerbated by factors like menstrual taboos. Personal experiences, such as losing my right to education under the Taliban, fueled my activism. Because I was a woman, I felt the impact when the Taliban took over, stripping away our rights to education and freedom of speech. We were forced into hiding, and our achievements vanished overnight. This forced me to speak up, and activism helped me share my story and lighten the burden of women's experiences. This is how I show the world what's happening in Afghanistan. I'm committed to bringing policy reforms and ensuring Afghan women aren't forgotten amidst global conflicts. Lamar started empowering Afghan women, facing challenges such as lack of resources, recruitment, and resistance from pro-Taliban elements. Despite personal struggles, Lamar remained committed to education, providing learning opportunities for Afghan women. She relocated from Afghanistan to Qatar and then to the United States, balancing work, academics, and activism. Despite the emotional and physical toll, Lamar remained steadfast in her commitment to education, demonstrating resilience and determination in her journey. Maqsoodi: What inspired you to become a women’s rights activist for Afghan women, particularly focusing on their right to education? Gran: My activism is inspired by my personal experience and the plight of Afghan women. In seventh grade, economic struggles limited my access to education. I couldn't afford tuition classes, and opportunities were scarce. Moreover, even with resources in the US, I can never forget those in need back home. I urge fellow youth and Afghan nationals to unite for this cause. My motivation comes from the injustices my people face. My own experiences fueled my determination to create change. I established Empowering Afghan Women to provide free education and advocate for women's rights. My love for my country and its people drives me forward. Maqsoodi: Let's move out a bit from your activism journey and explore your personal life. Tell us about your family and the environment you grew up in. What values and traditions were important to your family when you started going to university or when you began your work? Gran: My mother graduated from Kabul University and later became a high school teacher for over 20 years, while my father was a writer and activist. Their influence sparked my journey into activism and education. They supported me immensely, even sending me abroad for education in 2022. When I left Afghanistan, my father accompanied me to the border, a bittersweet moment for both of us. Their pride in my achievements has been constant, whether getting a scholarship to Berea College or pursuing further education in the United States. I have two educated brothers who also value higher education. Our family places great importance on knowledge, education, and progress, instilling in us a love for our country despite our refugee status. I am passionate about activism, constantly seeking new opportunities to make a difference. I work at the Center for International Education while studying political science. I plan to minor in law, peace, social justice, or economics, reflecting my diverse interests. My family's liberal and modern values have always supported my endeavors, from attending the American University of Afghanistan to pursuing education in Qatar and the United States. Their firm support has been priceless throughout my journey. Lamar enjoys a variety of hobbies that bring joy and relaxation to her life. One of her favorite hobbies is cooking, particularly preparing Afghan dishes, which she delights in sharing with friends from diverse backgrounds. In her alone time, Lamar finds peace in music. She is considering taking music classes to learn how to play instruments like the piano, guitar, or violin. Lamar also enjoys hiking, especially during the fall season, immersing herself in the beauty of nature. Additionally, she is interested in watching Korean dramas and movies related to politics and the court system. Hanging out with friends and playing card games like Mafia are activities that Lamar finds both enjoyable and relaxing. Maqsoodi: What personal quality or aspect of yourself are you exceptionally proud of, beyond your achievements and activities? Additionally, is there someone in your life whom you admire the most? If so, why? Gran: Well, honestly, I'm very proud of my resilience. Despite facing challenges or criticism, I am highly tolerant and can quickly move on. My confidence is another aspect I take pride in. I'm not overly confident, but I'm confident in expressing my thoughts and opinions on various topics. Additionally, I'm proud of my determination. Even if I fail multiple times, I continue to give my best effort because I'm stubborn and don't give up easily. As for someone I admire most, it's difficult to choose just one person. Many individuals have influenced me differently, but if I had to pick one, it would be my parents. They have constantly supported and inspired me to pursue my dreams and always believe in me. Their resilience, kindness, and unwavering love have shaped me into who I am today. However, my mother is one person I am grateful for having her.  She's a strong woman, navigating the challenges of this world with remarkable resilience. I've come to understand that being a woman requires patience, especially in the Afghan society with traditional taboos and diverse expectations. Despite these hurdles, my mother has courageously juggled work, provided for our family, and ensured the education of her three children. Maqsoodi:  That is brilliant. Living abroad can be challenging and stressful. What is the one thing that keeps you motivated when you feel exhausted or disappointed? If you had to mention only one thing. Gran: The one thing that keeps me motivated is to reunite with my family because it has been two years since I have been away from them. During this time, I've encountered rough treatment and discrimination from some people. However, the prospect of seeing my family again in the future is what drives me to study hard and work towards making something of myself. Their love and support inspire me to persevere and succeed, ultimately aiming to contribute to their well-being and happiness. "I know the time is tough, but I am sure you all can get through it. This time will pass. All those beautiful moments that we used to have will eventually come back. Stay brave! Don't lose your courage and hope."

Born and raised in the Baghlan province of Afghanistan where opportunities for youth, especially women, were scarce, Batol Gholami set out to make a change. Fueled with determination and a clear vision in 2019, she co-founded the Afghanistan Youth Leaders Assembly (AYLA) with the mission to empower women and youth across Afghanistan through education, skill-building, and community engagement. Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban in August 2021, AYLA has pivoted to providing online education, reaching over 3000 students in Afghanistan. Among them, the majority are girls who are banned from receiving education under the regime. Batol completed her high school in Baghlan and received a full scholarship from the government of Pakistan in 2017 to study computer science at the University of Comsat in Lahore. She was in Pakistan when Afghanistan fell to the Taliban in August 2021. “I've felt deeply lost twice in my life. Once in 2018 when I lost my father, which was the worst day of my life, and again when Afghanistan fell to the Taliban,” explains Batol, describing how difficult it was for her to believe what had happened. She had been dreaming of celebrating her graduation from university back home with her family and friends—a dream that was never fulfilled. “After almost a year, I was able to meet my family in Pakistan, but it was still a tough and unforgettable moment in my life.” AYLA was first started in Mazar-e-Sharif, expanding its activities to the provinces of Baghlan, Samangan, Bamiyan, and Kabul. Following the fall of the government in Afghanistan, Batol started receiving messages from girls in Afghanistan, “Batol, you’re so lucky that you’re out of the country.” Afghan girls, including Batol, were afraid of what then turned into a reality: the banning of girls from schools by the Taliban. To help the girls in Afghanistan in such a situation that was starting to happen, Batol and her colleagues at AYLA resumed their online classes in September 2021, only a month following the return of the Taliban to power. Though Batol had the experience of offering online courses before the fall, the demand for such courses was high this time. "We had almost 300+ students for the first round of classes, including school subjects, computer skills, technical courses, and foreign languages," says Batol, expressing gratitude for the support she has received for AYLA's efforts. Aware of the challenges associated with online education in Afghanistan, AYLA was the first organization to provide internet packages to its students, especially for those with financial barriers in remote areas of the country. "Even after our students graduated, especially those in advanced English classes, they continued their education abroad with scholarships," says Batol proudly, considering it a big achievement not just for the organization, but for all youth who work to empower each other. In addition to running AYLA, Batol has been an activist and advocate for women’s rights. While in Pakistan, she was invited as a speaker to deliver a speech on the situation of girls and women in Afghanistan, especially about education. Upon graduation from university in Pakistan, she was neither able to return to her home country like many other international students, nor stay in Pakistan. Feeling restless, she tried reaching out to the embassies of different countries in Pakistan via email, and Spain was the only country whose embassy responded to her. “After two interviews, I obtained a humanitarian visa. However, I left my mother and family in Pakistan,” Batol describes becoming a refugee as a tough experience, especially when someone is alone and on their own. It has been 15 months since she arrived in Spain, building everything from scratch. “Coping with life's pressures is challenging, but I try my best.” Spain and its people have been welcoming to Batol since she arrived in the country. “Spaniards are kind and gentle, much like in other European countries. Spanish is somewhat like English, which makes it interesting for me to learn. That's one reason why I chose to stay in Spain.” “I'm eager to learn new skills and stay updated on IT advancements,” she is interested in areas of Information Technology and International Educational Development. Batol believes in education as the only key to success for Afghans, especially women, not only in Afghanistan but also abroad. “I believe that educated women can reclaim their power. No force in the world can suppress the power of education,” describes Batol, explaining why the Taliban opposes education and her commitment to empowering people through education for the rest of her life. Deprivation of girls and women from their basic rights, including the right to get an education, is heartbreaking for Batol, but she believes they should not give up and keep their hopes high. “I want to remind them that after every darkness, there is success and light. We often achieve our greatest accomplishments during difficult times. Many of our students at AYLA faced similar challenges but persevered and secured scholarships to the US, Canada, and other countries. Despite the obstacles, they kept their hopes alive and worked hard. I urge other girls to do the same—to never give up. The new regime may restrict them, but there are always alternative paths. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you; seek them out.” Batol calls on the world to take action to help women in Afghanistan. “We're tired of empty promises and slogans on social media. We need action, especially in the realm of education.”