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 By Mariam P. When people hear about Afghanistan, they often think of war, loss, and restrictions. But behind all the headlines, there’s another story that is less told but deeply true. It’s the story of Afghan youth who, despite living in crisis and uncertainty, continue to find strength, hope, and purpose. I have seen this resilience in the faces of young people around me — friends, classmates, and even strangers online. Many of them have lost access to schools, jobs, and even basic freedoms, yet they still find ways to learn, to dream, and to stay connected. Hope has quietly become our form of resistance. For many Afghan youth, mental health has become one of the biggest challenges. The constant fear of the unknown, not knowing what tomorrow will bring, often leads to anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness. Yet, we rarely talk about mental health openly. In Afghan culture, these topics are still surrounded by silence. People are taught to “be strong,” to not show emotion, and to move on. But strength doesn’t mean hiding pain. Sometimes, real strength is found in facing it and choosing to grow from it. Learning as Healing Education has always been more than just lessons and grades for us; it has become a lifeline. When girls’ schools were closed and universities restricted, many young people turned to online learning. They joined free virtual programs, watched lessons on YouTube, or created small online study circles. These moments of learning make us feel alive again. Even though our opportunities are limited, we try to create our own. Some teach younger students at home, some start small study groups, and others volunteer online. Through these efforts, we remind ourselves that education cannot be fully banned, not when it lives inside us. Community as a Source of Strength In difficult times, community becomes everything. In Afghanistan, we rely on each other to survive — emotionally and practically. But for girls, this connection has a deeper meaning. We often say that we are all we have because society doesn’t protect or support us the way it should. Patriarchy still controls every part of our lives, from what we wear to whether we can study or work. So we lift each other up. We share resources, lessons, and opportunities. When one of us learns something new, we teach the others. We encourage each other not to give up, even when everything feels unfair. This sisterhood among Afghan girls is one of the strongest communities I have ever seen. It’s where we find hope, love, and the courage to continue. Online spaces have also created a kind of global community for Afghan youth. Through digital programs and leadership fellowships, we meet people from other cultures who remind us that we are not alone. Intercultural dialogue gives us a sense of belonging that many of us have lost in our own country. Learning from people who listen, understand, and support us helps rebuild our confidence and reminds us that our stories matter.  Finding Purpose Amid Pain When your country is in crisis, it’s easy to lose sight of purpose. But Afghan youth continue to prove that purpose can grow from pain. Many young people are using their voices to raise awareness about mental health, equality and education rights. Some start small campaigns on social media, while others join global programs or local volunteer groups. We don’t have perfect systems or many resources but we have determination. Our hope doesn’t come from comfort; it comes from the belief that one day things can be different. Resilience isn’t something we are born with; it’s something we build, piece by piece, through every hardship we face. For Afghan youth, resilience has become a quiet revolution. It shows in how we keep learning, helping and dreaming even when the world feels heavy. The Role of Global Solidarity Support from international communities matters more than many realize. When global organizations open doors for Afghan youth to learn or share their voices, it gives us visibility and hope. It reminds us that our stories are not forgotten. Intercultural dialogue and inclusion are key to healing divided societies. When people from different cultures listen to one another, stereotypes begin to fade and understanding grows. That’s why spaces like Global Citizens Circle are so meaningful. They bring people together not just to talk but to truly see one another as human beings with shared struggles and dreams. A Message of Hope Despite everything, I still believe in the power of youth especially Afghan youth to create change. Even if we can’t always change our environment, we can change how we respond to it. We can continue to learn, support each other and speak up for those who cannot. One day, I hope mental health will no longer be a taboo topic in Afghanistan. I hope that every young person, especially girls, can study freely and chase their dreams. Until then, we will keep doing what we can: learning, teaching, connecting, and hoping. Because sometimes, resilience is not about winning. It’s about refusing to give up. Mariam P. is a young Afghan woman passionate about technology, education, and creating opportunities for women. She continues her studies online while volunteering and participating in global leadership programs. She enjoys reading, exploring art, and engaging in a variety of extracurricular activities, including digital projects. Living through years of conflict and restrictions has shaped her belief that learning, commitment, and community are powerful forms of healing and hope. Please note: We invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Resilience isn’t something we are born with; it’s something we build, piece by piece, through every hardship we face. For Afghan youth, resilience has become a quiet revolution. It shows in how we keep learning, helping and dreaming even when the world feels heavy." - Mariam P.
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 By Nilab Ahmadi My journey to becoming my current self began when I realized women are often viewed as inferior to men in my community. I was born in a country where fathers would be upset if they were told they would have a girl. I later learned that these beliefs and misogynistic attitudes originate from a lack of education and are deeply embedded in Afghan culture. Growing up, I committed myself to working hard to transform my community and demonstrate women's strength. Since childhood, I have been passionate about leadership, community transformation, and supporting Afghan girls. As an Afghan girl often seen as inferior to men, I have always empathized with the struggles faced by others. At the age of 14, I began working with Afghan girls, teaching them basic English in a center specifically designed for women and young girls. In Afghanistan, girls and women were often restricted from work and education and had limited learning opportunities. Following the Taliban's rise to power in August 2021, women and girls were completely erased from the community, locked in their homes.  Nilab with her GCC family The restrictions and setbacks placed on women initially discouraged me. However, I saw these challenges as an opportunity to step up and speak out. I actively supported Afghan girls through social media, writing, and volunteering. This involvement led to my participation in Global Citizens Circle (GCC) in 2023, where I was a guest speaker at a Circle event, “Youth Resilience in Times of Conflict.” I spoke about the difficulties faced by Afghan girls and the education ban following the Taliban's return, addressing hundreds of attendees from around the world. I never expected this experience to unlock many meaningful opportunities and allow me to connect with amazing people who now feel like family. Today, I see GCC as my family—a safe space for growth, love, and support. In August 2023, I left Afghanistan to attend Duke University in the U.S. and pursue my graduate degree. My life changed dramatically after arriving in the U.S. I began my Master of Public Policy program at Duke University, a dream university, in a country I had wished to study in since childhood. Reflecting on 2023, I see a girl faced with numerous obstacles and challenges yet driven by a hunger for education. My resilience and passion for learning helped me persevere and achieve my goal of attending Duke University. Duke University has offered me numerous growth opportunities and helped me increase advocacy for Afghan girls and their issues through policy initiatives. This advocacy earned me the 'Forever Duke Student Leadership Award, a prestigious honor typically awarded to graduate students in recognition of their leadership contributions to the Duke community, and beyond.  Driven by my passion and enthusiasm for advocating Afghan girls' education—especially after the Taliban's rise—I recently launched a network called Rise Up To Learn. This initiative offers online schooling using STEAM-based apps for Afghan girls who have been prevented from attending school since the Taliban's takeover. Beyond education, Rise Up To Learn also provides opportunities for these girls to earn money by working on our projects, addressing the lack of employment opportunities in their country. The platform aims to be a safe, growth-oriented space where hundreds of girls can develop both professionally and economically. My vision for Rise Up To Learn is highly ambitious. I plan to grow this network into one of the world’s largest, so that no Afghan girl fears her future. With the Taliban closing schools, we will transform every home into a classroom. Additionally, as a policy professional, I aim to develop sustainable education policies in Afghanistan, strengthen the education system, and foster economic development opportunities upon my return. I eagerly anticipate a future where women and girls worldwide are liberated from the stress resulting from the denial of education and basic human rights. Nilab Ahmadi is a passionate advocate for youth and women’s education from Afghanistan, committed to advancing educational equity for women and girls. In response to the Taliban’s ban on education, she founded Rise Up To Learn, an initiative that provides digital learning and economic opportunities for Afghan girls. Her work bridges policy and practice to empower girls, challenge systemic barriers, and foster long-term social change. Please note: We invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Growing up, I committed myself to working hard to transform my community and demonstrate women's strength. By Theo Spanos Dunfey GCC Assistant Director Phoebe de Larrabeiti and I recently attended CSW69, which marks the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, held at the United Nation Headquarters in New York. We are grateful to Marlyn Tadros, CEO and Executive Director of Digital Democracy Now for hosting GCC at UNCSW. A highlight was meeting one of GCC's Emerging Leaders, Nilab Ahmadi from Afghanistan, and celebrating her selection for the UN youth cohort. We enjoyed GCC Board member Priscilla Lee’s presentation on Afghan girls’ education and were deeply moved by a panel of survivors of sexual abuse and prostitution. Inspiring sessions featured young leaders and storytellers, while cultural moments included learning a Maori proverb and enjoying their singing. A final interactive session felt like a fitting celebration of our experiences and gave us hope for what’s to come. I hope you enjoy this video compilation of our time at CSW69. Theo Spanos Dunfey is president and executive director of Global Citizens Circle. She has over 30 years of global experience in non-profits, higher education, and international affairs. Dunfey is a graduate of the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy, concentrating on American diplomatic history, international communication, and international development. It was during her studies at the Fletcher School that she first began volunteering with Global Citizens Circle’s Boston programs. She also earned a bachelor’s in international relations and French at Brown University. With a primary focus on global issues, Dunfey taught international development at the University of New England, led student groups on global citizenship service-learning trips abroad, directed the World Affairs Council of Maine, and produced numerous global editorial conferences for The WorldPaper before taking the helm at Global Citizens Circle. I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past.  By R. Rahini Like many other Afghans, I experienced a period of extreme terror and bewilderment in August 2021 when the Taliban seized power in the nation. I realized we had to make a choice for our future when my family and I saw the world crumble around us for a few days. Despite having very little money to make the trip, my wife and I decided to leave Afghanistan. In the hopes of finding security and stability, we made the decision to go to Pakistan, but this would not be a simple journey. We met many difficulties on our journey, particularly at the numerous checkpoints we went through along the way. Each time, we were questioned and treated harshly when it was discovered that we were Hazaras. Prejudice permeated their responses, and we were turned away at multiple checkpoints. People from the Hazara community were not allowed to cross the border freely by the government. Although this was very discouraging, we persisted until we were eventually able to enter Pakistan. After arriving in Pakistan, we encountered new challenges. I quickly discovered that it was very hard to obtain a job there, which also made it hard to pay for even the most basic of bills due to our tight budget. One of the most difficult periods of our lives was the month we spent in Pakistan. My present employer made me a job offer just when it seemed like we were out of options. In the middle of the mayhem, it felt like a lifeline. After talking about the possibility with my spouse, we concluded that it would not be feasible to remain in Pakistan without any assistance or a certain future. Despite the risks, it seemed that returning to Afghanistan was the only option. We made the tough decision to return, and I began working at my new job. When I got back, though, I noticed something that made my heart hurt. Like so many other women and girls in Afghanistan, my wife and sister had given up on life. Due to the new regime's constraints, they were forced to stay in our home and were unable to continue their studies. They felt apprehensive about their future, dissatisfied, and frustrated. When I saw this, I realized I had to do something. The ladies in my life couldn't continue to live their dreams in silence. Upon starting my search, I discovered that women might qualify for a number of scholarships provided they met the English language proficiency criteria. My wife and sister were not able to access an accredited educational system, so I took it upon myself to teach them English. We worked nonstop for six months. I taught them English every day, and over time, they improved gradually. My sister and wife were eventually prepared to go through the required interviews and exams to get the scholarships they had been pursuing. They were admitted after putting in months of arduous effort and devotion. It was a triumphant moment for me as well, as I knew that I had assisted them in escaping the constraints placed upon them. However, this was insufficient. I came to see how many other Afghani women and girls were facing the same challenges. Despite having hopes, potential, and goals, they were not allowed to pursue an education. I made the decision for girls because I was motivated by my wife and sister's achievements. I set out to assist them in learning English so they might break free from the limitations holding them back and become eligible for scholarships. I'm happy to report that about 15 girls currently participate English language program. Like my wife and sister, they are putting in a lot of work, and I have no doubt that they will accomplish great things as well. They're going to apply for scholarships, and maybe soon, they'll be able to continue their study and establish themselves outside of Afghanistan. When I look back, my trip from Pakistan to Afghanistan was a homecoming to both my native country and my purpose in life. I came to see that I could still have an impact despite everything. My impulse to provide the same help to other women and girls who had been denied the chance to pursue their education came from seeing my wife and sister find hope once more. This is not the end of my journey. Observing the girls who visit the center every day, I can see their determination. Their perseverance and bravery in facing challenges serve as a reminder of the strength and fortitude of Afghan women. I'm filled with pride and hope as they get ready for their futures. Despite the difficult times Afghanistan is facing, I will do everything in my power to maintain the flickering flame of empowerment and education. R. Rahimi was born in 1991 in Bamyan, Afghanistan. After finishing school, he went to Kabul Polytechnic University to study Information Technology and graduated in 2017. Post-graduation, he worked as a research assistant with Kelly Franklin, PhD candidate in the Systems Ecology Program at the University of Montana for about six months. Rahimi went on to work at MEDAIR as a quality assurance assistant from 2018-2021, before joining an international humanitarian organization as an IT operations assistant. Throughout his career, he has gained experience in research, quality control, and IT operations, especially in humanitarian work.
Despite the difficult times Afghanistan is facing, I will do everything in my power to maintain the flickering flame of empowerment and education. |
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