“Despite all these threats, my sense of humanity did not allow me to stop”

Forogh

Teacher and baker, Takhar

A woman stretches out and rounds flatbread.

“Before the Taliban came to power, I used to teach in a government school, instructing students in the higher grades (10th, 11th and 12th). I also held the position of Deputy Head of the Provincial Council Cluster. In this capacity, I worked diligently to address women’s issues and create opportunities for women at the provincial level. My husband had a fulfilling job, and we were leading a pleasant life together.

However, after the events of 15 August 2021, a shadow of darkness and uncertainty engulfed the lives of Afghan women and girls.

After these changes and the imposition of restrictions by the Taliban, many women and girls have been suffering from depression, even considering suicide as a solution. I thought I shouldn’t lose hope and should seek solutions and alternative opportunities. So, I started providing psychological counselling sessions and discreet meetings with women to overcome these challenges in the safety of their homes.

However, just a few days into these activities, I was subjected to harassment and threats from the Taliban. They warned that if I continued such activities, they would imprison both my husband and I.

Despite all these threats, my sense of humanity did not allow me to stop, and I have continued this work by changing the venues of sessions and adapting to circumstances.

Simultaneously, as our economic problems worsened day-by-day, I decided to set up a bakery for cakes and pastries, but I couldn’t do it without my husband’s help. When I talked to my husband about it, he initially resisted, as life under the Taliban had also changed him – a man who had previously respected my opinions.

With great persistence, I managed to change his mind. I had to do this because I wanted to provide for my children and the women in my neighbourhood who were suffering from severe economic and emotional difficulties.

After obtaining my husband’s permission, I set up a regular bakery in my own house, making cakes and pastries. I hired around 20 women and girls who were facing economic and emotional difficulties as apprentices. These women and girls work with me every day from 8 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon. They stay busy, and to some extent, they can alleviate their economic problems with their earnings from this work.

I am hopeful that one day I can freely utilize my abilities in society and participate in all social spheres. I also hope that international organizations will collaborate with us and support us, recognizing our efforts and not legitimizing this corrupt group that is the Taliban.”

“With empty hands and a wounded spirit, I continue to fight for survival”