The future is not that bad. There’s always a path forward, and you just have to find it.
Tawos Nazari
Tawos Nazari is 19 years old and currently studying for her bachelor’s degree at the American University of Afghanistan. But her journey has not been without its challenges. Born and raised in Kabul, Tawos graduated from Surya High School in 2022, a time when the Taliban closed universities in Afghanistan to women on December 20, 2022.
It was a hard time when I graduated. The Taliban had taken over, and everything felt uncertain. I thought I’d be able to continue my education, but the world around me seemed to collapse.
With the doors of education closing for many Afghan women, Tawos found herself at a crossroads. But instead of accepting defeat, she chose to turn this barrier into an opportunity. She began exploring online education, a path that her family encouraged and supported her to pursue.
My family always told me, ‘You have to break barriers to see the other side.’ At first, I wasn’t sure how to do that, but I started reading books and looking into online courses. I didn’t want to let the situation define my future.
Through her self-study and exploration of online programs, Tawos found something that truly changed her perspective—an online leadership program. Initially, she didn’t know much about leadership, but as the program progressed, she saw a transformation in herself.
I didn’t know anything about leadership at first. But after two months, I noticed a real change in my communication and leadership skills. It made me realize how much I could achieve, even when everything else seemed impossible.
Tawos put her newfound skills to use when she worked at an online library, organizing exhibitions like the “Omid Art and Book Exhibition,” which focused on showcasing artwork and empowering women.
At the time, everyone was going through tough circumstances. The exhibition was a way to offer hope. ‘Omid’ means hope in English, and that’s what we wanted to give to Afghan girls—hope for a brighter future, even in the darkest times.
Her involvement in various campaigns and leadership programs continued to sharpen her skills. Tawos even passed an English test and applied to the American University of Afghanistan, where she was accepted to continue her education online.
I couldn’t believe it when I got accepted. It was a huge achievement for me because education was always my dream. Despite the obstacles, I was able to continue my studies, and now I’m in my second semester as a university student.
But Tawos’ journey didn’t stop there. In 2024, she was selected as a Global Youth Ambassador for the Dear World Organization, a role that further developed her communication skills and connected her to a global network of changemakers.
Becoming a Global Youth Ambassador was one of the highlights of my journey. It gave me the chance to use my leadership skills and help others while continuing to grow as a person.
Tawos now reflects on her journey and the lessons she’s learned. Her time in school made her realize that the traditional education system in Afghanistan, while valuable, needs to evolve. In her eyes, education should focus on more than just academic subjects; it should emphasize skills like leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving—skills that are essential for success in the real world.
The education system in Afghanistan has many good subjects, but what’s truly important are the skills. We need to focus on leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These are the things that can truly change lives.
Tawos also recognizes the unique challenges faced by Afghan women, especially under the Taliban regime, but she urges them not to lose hope. Even if they can’t go outside, there are still ways to learn and grow from home.
I know it’s hard. I know it’s challenging. But I want to tell every girl out there who feels trapped or silenced, to think about what they would do if they weren’t under the Taliban’s rule. Whatever comes to your mind, pursue it. Don’t give up on your dreams.
Tawos believes that the barriers created by the Taliban are just temporary, and there’s always a way forward.
Don’t let the situation define you. The Taliban regime is just a barrier. If we break it, we’ll see a brighter future on the other side. Stay strong, stay hopeful, and keep moving forward.
As Tawos looks ahead, she is determined to bring about change in Afghanistan’s education system and create more opportunities for girls and women to thrive. She knows that the road ahead won’t be easy, but she believes in her ability to pave the way for a better future.
The future is not as bleak as it seems. If we keep pushing forward, there is always hope. We have to keep learning, growing, and working toward change.
Tawos’ journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult the situation may seem, there is always a path forward. With determination, resilience, and the support of those around us, we can break through any barrier and reach our goals.
Thank you for listening. Don’t ever give up on yourself. The world is waiting for you to make your mark.
Tawos Nazari
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.
