16 Days of Activism: investing in hope to prevent violence against women and girls in Afghanistan

In a world where the shadows of violence against women and girls are ever present, Khatera’s journey stands as a testament to the power of investment – in education, empowerment, and unwavering determination.

Khatera’s transformative journey with Islamic Relief, from a young graduate to working with orphans, embodies the very essence of investing to prevent violence against women and girls, which we are highlighting as part of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Through her resilience and commitment, Khatera has become a beacon of hope, striving to bring positive change to her homeland, Afghanistan.

A calling to serve

At just 24 years old, Khatera, a graduate of Kabul University’s Faculty of Policy and Administration, has already embarked on a remarkable journey with Islamic Relief. A year ago, she joined us as an intern, and today, she proudly serves as a programme assistant in the Orphans and Widows Support Programme department. Her story is not just one of personal triumph, but a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Afghan youth.

Afghanistan, with its rich history and complex challenges, is more than just a homeland to Khatera; it’s the inspiration for her life’s mission. She firmly believes that her country needs her, and she needs it in return. Her unwavering commitment to staying, living, and serving her people exemplifies the resilience of a new generation eager to bring about positive change.

From despair to hope

Khatera’s journey with Islamic Relief began at a time when her own mental state mirrored the bleakness of her society. Afghanistan was grappling with numerous challenges, and hope seemed like a distant dream. However, her life took a transformative turn when she became part of Islamic Relief’s Youth Professional Development Programme. Through this programme, Khatera received training, resources, and job opportunities that not only reshaped her perspective, but also reignited hope in her professional life.

Navigating challenges

Every new journey comes with its fair share of challenges, and Khatera’s internship period was no exception. Balancing her budding professional career with the practical demands of her work presented its own set of hurdles.

Adapting to a new work environment and communicating with colleagues from different corners of the globe added another layer of complexity. However, Khatera’s resilience and determination, coupled with the unwavering support of her colleagues, mentors, and the nurturing environment at Islamic Relief, empowered her to overcome these obstacles.

Opening doors to success

The internship programme not only served as a stepping stone for Khatera’s professional growth but also provided her with invaluable job opportunities upon its completion. Today, she takes immense pride in her role with the Islamic Relief Afghanistan team.

It allows her to work closely with some of Afghanistan’s most vulnerable individuals – widows and orphans. This mission aligns perfectly with her deeply-rooted personal values and her burning desire to bring about positive change. The Orphan Sponsorship Programme is a lifeline that offers widows and orphans a radiant glimmer of hope.

Smiles of encouragement

Amid a challenging context, especially for women, Khatera finds solace in the smiles of those whose lives have been touched by her work. These smiles serve as powerful reminders that, even in the face of adversity, meaningful change is possible.

Khatera acknowledges the myriad challenges faced by girls and women in Afghanistan, where support is scarce, and oppression persists. Yet, her heart swells with hope that a day will come when Afghan girls and women will have unfettered access to education and employment, allowing them to take their rightful place in society as equals.

To Khatera, being a role model isn’t just a privilege; it’s a solemn duty. She believes that she has an unparalleled opportunity to usher in a wave of positive change for future generations. The way she sees it, Afghan culture should not stand in opposition to women’s rights and girls’ education. Instead, it should be a platform for empowerment, equality, and the celebration of diversity.

Khatera’s journey with Islamic Relief is an inspirational tale of unwavering resolve and a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of Afghan women and youth.

Her story serves as a powerful beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a brighter and more equitable future for Afghanistan.

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