Faranak, 23

I was a high school graduate. The self-empowerment course is deeply meaningful to me because it completely changed my life. Before joining the course, I was hopeless, depressed, and not well. I was struggling with school and family problems and felt completely lost. But this course gave me strength, confidence, a new way of thinking, and a new vision for my life. It helped me heal and become a motivated, hopeful person.

Now, I truly believe I have many paths to continue my education and reach my dreams. This course helped me grow mentally and emotionally, and I want to continue this journey. I know I still have more to learn, and I want to grow with them. I would strongly recommend this course to other Afghan girls because it truly changes lives. It helps girls believe in themselves, discover their inner strength, and realize they’re not alone.

Many Afghan girls face difficult challenges, and this course offers hope, motivation, and practical tools to build a better future. Every girl deserves this opportunity. Right now, I’m studying dentistry, as well as Data Analytics, English, and a Self-Empowerment and Feminism class with Voices Unveiled. I love learning about hacking because I want to solve problems. I also enjoy sports, reading extra books, watching TV sometimes, dancing, music, painting, and handcrafts.

My dream is to become an educated person and a “business hacker” who can help others solve computer problems. I also want to become a skilled painter and a journalist. I’ve faced many challenges in my life. One of the biggest has been education. My family has also faced financial struggles—my father lost his job and had to go to Iran to support our household of six. But one person alone can’t provide everything. In Afghanistan, it’s even harder because girls aren’t allowed to work or go out without a man.

On top of that, my mother has been sick for many years and relies on medication. These are just a few of the many hardships I’ve had to face. Before this course, no teacher had ever supported me the way Ms. Cara has. I studied subjects like physics, chemistry, and math in school and other in-person classes, but I always had to teach myself. No one had ever guided me or given me learning opportunities like this course has.

Aside from my parents, no one had ever truly encouraged, supported, or motivated me. Ms. Cara is the first teacher in my life who has truly stood by my side, guided me, and believed in me. She is one of the rarest and best teachers I have ever met, and I deeply respect and love her from the bottom of my heart.