Open Mic Ep 2 – The Afghan Times Podcast

Welcome to the second episode of Open Mic – The Afghan Times Podcast, where we share inspiring stories of resilience, hope, and courage from Afghanistan. Today, we have an extraordinary story from Heela, a young Afghan woman whose life took an unexpected turn after the Taliban’s rise to power, but who found new ways to continue her education and contribute to society.

When the Taliban took power in 2021, girls and women including Heela, were barred from attending school. Heela Amanzai, a twelfth-grade student at the time, was determined to sit for the concours exam and fulfill her dream of pursuing higher education. However, like thousands of other Afghan girls and women, she found herself unable to complete her final year of school in a classroom setting.

But Heela didn’t let this setback define her. She viewed this as the beginning of a new journey. In her own words, “This was not the end of my educational path, it was just the beginning of a successful life.”

Heela began to ask herself, “How can I continue my studies or find work?” She shared her ambitions with her friends, and through them, she discovered the world of online education.

At first, she knew little about online classes and struggled to find a starting point. But her persistence paid off. In 2022, she found her first online course and joined a program called Best of Congress. From there, doors began to open. Another friend introduced her to a course on 21st Century Skills, taught by an American professor named Dr. Faheem. Hela successfully completed this course, which marked a turning point in her life.

“I was so happy to begin meaningful work from home,” Heela recalls, “and not waste my time.”

She didn’t stop at education. Hela’s dedication led her to take on volunteer roles in three different organizations. By 2023, she had begun her higher studies in economics at Zan University, an online institution. Simultaneously, she enrolled in an online English language program through Harzonia University, a U.S.-based university.

Heela’s commitment to learning is matched by her passion for helping others. In 2023, she became a teaching assistant (TA) for Classroom Without Walls (CWW), an organization that initially offered online classes for girls in Ukraine and Myanmar. When the Taliban restricted girls’ education in Afghanistan, CWW expanded to include Afghan girls in its programs.

In March 2023, CWW began offering online classes for Afghan girls and women in subjects such as law, English, arts, leadership, self-care, computer skills, and even sports. The demand was high, and Heela, along with other Afghan women, stepped in as TAs to help manage the growing number of students.

“Our teachers are all from abroad, and our students, many of whom weren’t able to finish school, are thriving in these classes,” Heela shares proudly.

Beyond her role at CWW, Heela works full-time with Jawan Bray Jawan (For Youth by Youth), where she helps with human resources. Since 2022, she has also served as the head of the Information and Technology department at Afghanistan Open University, supporting Afghan students through online education.

Heela’s achievements don’t end there. She’s also participated in various academies, including a prestigious program called Targeted, through which she earned an internship.

“Before the Taliban’s restrictions, I had no idea how to start with online classes,” Heela reflects. “But once I found the resources, I began my studies, and there was no turning back.”

Despite the many challenges Afghan girls face today, Heela remains hopeful. She views the restrictions not as a barrier, but as a challenge to be overcome.

“My message to Afghan girls is simple,” Heela says with determination. “Never accept a life without purpose. Pursue your dreams, no matter how difficult the situation.”

Heela’s story is one of resilience and hope, a reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, Afghan girls are finding ways to adapt, learn, and thrive. She continues to share her knowledge with other girls, empowering them to take control of their education and futures.

Heela also calls on international organizations to support Afghan girls by providing scholarships and opportunities for education.

“I ask the international community to help Afghan girls continue their education by offering scholarships and resources. Education is our path to change,” she emphasizes.

To Listen

Thank you for joining us for this episode of Open Mic – The Afghan Times Podcast. We hope Heela’s story inspires you as much as it inspires us. Stay tuned for more powerful stories of resilience from the heart of Afghanistan.

Visit: Open Mic Podcast – The Afghan Times Email: Info@theafghantimes.com