In Afghanistan today, women are banned from higher education. Speaking out about your beliefs can be dangerous. For many AUAF students, staying safe means staying anonymous.
But anonymity does not mean silence.
Throughout history, writers have used pseudonyms to speak truth in hostile environments. For our students—who can’t safely use their own names—we’ve chosen one: Roya, which means dream in Dari.
Roya is not one person. Roya is every student who carries their courage in secret.
Each story in this series will be shared under that name.
Roya’s Story #1: A Dream I Never Let Go
I first heard about AUAF when I was a high school student. It became my biggest dream to study there, to walk the campus, to be part of something bigger. At the time, I was admitted to Kabul University, and for many reasons, I couldn’t make the switch. But the dream never left me.
Years later, when the world seemed darker and education for women felt almost impossible, I got the chance. I joined AUAF. And I am still here, studying—despite everything.
The experience has changed my life. It’s not just about learning. It’s about hope, resilience, and proving that we still exist——we who believe in a future worth fighting for.
Even without a physical classroom, even with electricity outages, even when it feels overwhelming to juggle so much from home—I keep going. Because this chance is rare. And I know what it means.
Since 2018 I have collaborated and volunteered with several organizations to promote education and leadership for youth and girls in my community. I founded a non-profit, where we train young women in leadership and peace building. I’ve met people from Italy, Nigeria, and France through our workshops. Some of the girls I’ve trained are now leading efforts in their own communities.
I want the world to know that Afghan women are resilient. We are leaders. We just need a chance to show it.
I don’t want to be limited to one degree or one role. I want to become a software engineer and a journalist. I want to explore the world and bring opportunity back with me. I want to live a life of meaning and help others do the same.
— Roya
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