Three years since the Taliban takeover, what keeps you hopeful about Afghanistan’s future? — Assembly

Amid fear and uncertainty, here’s what is keeping young women hopeful about their education and future three years after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan.

We often focus on our feelings of despair and hopelessness when talking about the oppressive systems that women and girls face every day. But what keeps girls like you grounded and hopeful about the future despite the challenges we face?

As Afghan women remain steadfast in their fight against gender apartheid, we asked four young women from Rahela Trust’s online education programmes to sound off on what keeps them hopeful about their future and what they envision for a brighter, equitable future of Afghan women.

“Three years under Taliban rule, yet we still find reasons to hope. Afghans have always been resilient, standing strong even in the darkest times. My friends and peers are my biggest source of strength. Despite the restrictions, we use the internet to keep learning, pushing forward toward a better Afghanistan.

No regime can last forever without listening to its people. My dream is to one day serve my country, helping to build a brighter future when change inevitably comes.”

— Amina*, 16-year-old student in Afghanistan

“What keeps me going after three years of Taliban rule is the unwavering support of my family and friends. They lifted me up when despair threatened to take hold, pushing me to continue my education despite the odds. My friends and I refuse to give up, learning together no matter how many times the Taliban tries to shut us down.

Our dedicated teachers have also inspired hope, reopening schools and keeping our dreams alive. Afghan women stand together, creating networks that empower us all. Even in the darkest times, we find light in each other.”

— Layla*, 17-year-old student in Afghanistan

“When the Taliban took over, many girls in Afghanistan lost hope, remembering the dark days from 20 years ago. But I held on to the words of Allah Almighty: "Do not grieve; indeed, Allah is with us." Despair was not an option for me. I thought of the girls before Islam, whom God protected by sending Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These reflections kept me going until I discovered the Rahela Trust Online School, where my dreams were reignited. In a country where little gives me hope, the Rahela Trust is what keeps me moving forward.”

— Basira*, 17-year-old student in Afghanistan

“The situation in Afghanistan has been tough since the Taliban took over three years ago, but what keeps me hopeful is the resilience of Afghan women and young people. Despite the challenges, we continue to pursue education and fight for our rights. Organisations like Rahela Trust, which empowers girls through education, give me hope that we can shape a brighter future. We keep moving forward, even in the hardest times, which fuels my belief in a better tomorrow.”

— Safa*, 16-year-old student in Afghanistan

Editor’s note: all names used are pseudonyms and quotes are edited for clarity.

Illustration by Mahina Martinson.