Note from the Executive Director
Every year , a letter from the Executive Director introduces the Journey of Hope magazine . This year , however , as millions of Afghan women and girls are being silenced , I want to use this opportunity and space to amplify their voices . Aisha is one of the courageous Afghan women who refuse to be made small or invisible . Despite the dangers , she is determined to speak out . I commend Aisha for her daring , defiance , and determination , and I hope that you find inspiration in her words .
Sincerely ,
Alice Thomas , Executive Director Central Asia Institute
Dear Friends ,
My name is Aisha , and I was born in Afghanistan . You will read part of my story in this magazine . My story has the potential to be a happy one . But right now , I ’ m not sure how happy the ending will be .
In the summer of 2021 , I was forced to flee my home because I feared for my life . The Taliban were moving closer and closer to my village . My family and I fled to Kabul , where we hoped we would be safe . Now I live on the streets and am waiting to know my fate .
Tragically , my story is not unique . There are hundreds of thousands of people just like me . We are young people who had big dreams — dreams that we now fear won ’ t come true because of the Taliban , because of people who think they can decide our futures , ignorant people who don ’ t want us to be connected to the world , who don ’ t want us to explore or to read or to learn , and who don ’ t want women to have even the most basic human rights .
But I have hope . I am hopeful because I know that our sisters and brothers around the globe haven ’ t forgotten us . As you read the stories in this magazine , know that there are real people behind these words . We have real hopes and real fears .
My sisters and brothers , we know the future is uncertain . But when you keep us in your hearts , you give us hope for a happy end to our stories . Please do not let the darkness of ignorance win !
Sincerely , Aisha
* The author ’ s name has been changed to protect her identity .
2 | JOURNEY OF HOPE CENTRAL ASIA INSTITUTE