I hail from Kabul, a vibrant city in Afghanistan bustling with a diverse population of nearly seven million people from various ethnic backgrounds like Tajik, Uzbek, Pashtun, and Hazara. For 16 years, I called Kabul my home, cherishing the memories of laughter, friendship, and cultural richness that filled my days.

Growing up, I was surrounded by friends with whom I shared countless adventures. From shopping trips to enjoying delicious meals at restaurants, we made the most of every moment. School was a place of camaraderie, where my friends and I tackled challenges together, forming a tight-knit group of ten. Our lives were intertwined, and we celebrated each other's joys, attending family events, weddings, and engagement parties adorned in colorful traditional attire and dazzling Afghan jewelry.

Despite the turmoil in Afghanistan, my family and I embarked on journeys to different countries, soaking in the diverse cultures and experiences. Little did I know that one day, I would be forced to leave my beloved homeland behind and embark on a journey to a foreign land where the language and customs were unfamiliar.

In 2021, when the Taliban seized control of Kabul, the safety of my family became paramount. With a heavy heart, we made the decision to leave Afghanistan, uncertain if we would ever return. The day we left, the chaos and fear engulfing Kabul were palpable. As I stepped into the airport, I couldn't shake the feeling of leaving behind everything I held dear – the familiar streets, cherished friends, and the comforting embrace of my homeland.

Arriving in the United States was a whirlwind of emotions. While I had visited before, this time was different. I was faced with the daunting task of learning a new language and adapting to a new culture, leaving behind the familiarity of my Afghan heritage. The sense of loss was profound as I grappled with the realization that my voice, once vibrant and alive in Afghanistan, now felt muted in a foreign land.

Despite the challenges, my time in the United States has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience. I am grateful for the safety and opportunities afforded to me, but I mourn the loss of my native tongue and the freedom to express myself openly. In Afghanistan, discussions about politics were commonplace, yet here in the US, I struggle to find my voice amidst unfamiliar surroundings.

However, with each passing day, I am reminded of the importance of perseverance and adaptation. While I may no longer have the same voice I once had, I am determined to find new ways to make a difference and advocate for the issues that matter to me.

Graduating from Kent-Meridian High School on June 8, 2024, will be a significant milestone for me. As I walk across the stage, I will feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I have overcome countless obstacles to reach this point. The thought of becoming a teacher excites me, as I hope to inspire and empower young minds just as my educators did for me.

Inspired by the courage and resilience of Malala Yousafzai, I aspire to advocate for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan. Like Malala, who fearlessly stood up for education despite facing adversity, I believe that every girl deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to pursue her dreams. Through education and advocacy, I hope to be a voice for change and contribute to building a brighter future for women in Afghanistan and around the world.

Through education and advocacy, I hope to be a voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope for those who are still fighting for their right to learn. As Malala once said, education is indeed a precious gift, a diamond that has the power to transform lives and shape a brighter future for generations to come.

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