In this episode of The Afghan Times Podcast, we are joined by Farishta Samim, an inspiring 18-year-old who embodies resilience, strength, and hope. Farishta’s journey from Afghanistan to Canada, marked by courage and determination, sheds light on the harsh realities faced by Afghan women, as well as the enduring power of dreams in the face of overwhelming adversity.
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“I want to be a voice for you. I want to tell the world about your strength, about how you wake up every morning and face a reality that most people can’t even imagine.” — Farishta Samim
Farishta’s story begins in Afghanistan, a place she will always call home. Growing up, she attended Marefat High School, where she experienced some of the best years of her life. It was a school where young women were encouraged to dream, to lead, and to thrive—a place of opportunity where hope was abundant.
But everything changed when the Taliban took control over Afghanistan in August 2021. Dreams turned into a survival instinct, and the world that once seemed full of possibility became one where even the simplest freedoms, like education, were ripped away. For Farishta, it was no longer about school or future plans, but about surviving each day.
We knew we couldn’t stay. We knew if we stayed, we might not survive.
Farishta’s family, especially her sisters, were at risk due to their involvement with a music group, a part of the school that the Taliban despised. Music, art, and freedom were all deemed criminal by the regime.
When the Taliban regained control of the country in August 2021, they reimposed the ban on music, claiming it was against Islamic principles.
Faced with the imminent threat of violence, Farishta and her family made the difficult decision to flee. They were supported by the 31st Foundation, an organization that would give them the hope and resources they desperately needed.
“It was through this incredible organization that I found hope again. Through 31st, I have achieved so many goals and had so many beautiful experiences. They gave me the chance to raise awareness, to share my story, and to let the world hear my voice.”
Their journey took them from Afghanistan to Pakistan, and finally to Canada, where they found safety. Now, three years later, Farishta reflects on the life she left behind and the women who still struggle in Afghanistan.
“I know what it feels like to be afraid, to feel like the world is crashing down on you. But let me also tell you this: You are stronger than you think. You’re braver than you know.”
Despite the security and opportunities she now has in Canada, Farishta carries the weight of her Afghan sisters with her every day. Her greatest mission is to amplify their voices, to remind the world that Afghan women are not forgotten, and that their dreams are still alive, even under the shadow of oppression.
“My biggest goal in life is to help you. I want to make sure your voices are heard, whether you’re in Afghanistan or anywhere else in the world. You inspire me.”
Farishta calls upon the international community to act in defense of Afghan women, emphasizing that the world cannot ignore what is happening to them. Afghanistan remains the only country where women are banned from attending school, a tragedy that Farishta believes is a crisis for humanity as a whole.
“How can we call ourselves human if we ignore what’s happening to Afghan girls? Afghan girls need your support, your advocacy, and your action.”
For Farishta, safety in Canada doesn’t mean forgetting Afghanistan. Every step she takes here is for the women still in Afghanistan—the ones who can’t speak, who can’t dream, and who are waiting for the world to remember them.
“Don’t stop dreaming. Don’t stop hoping. Don’t stop believing in yourself. You are brave. You are strong. And one day, the world will see that too.”
Farishta’s story is not just her own—it’s a collective story of all Afghan women who fight for their future. Through her words, she hopes to reach the woman who feels like giving up, to remind her that she is not alone, and that there are people fighting for her, standing with her.
This is not just my story. It’s our story. And together, we’ll make sure it’s heard.
Farishta Samim
Open Mic is The Afghan Times podcast, where Afghan women share their stories in their own voices, on their own terms—open to every Afghan woman.
