As Angelina Jolie once said, "I have never understood why some people are lucky enough to be born with the chance that I had, to have this path in life. And why somewhere across the world, there's a woman just like me, with the same abilities and the same desires, same work ethic and love for her family, who would most likely make better films, and better speeches – only she sits in a refugee camp. She has no voice. She worries about what her children will eat, how to keep them safe, and if they'll ever be allowed to return home. I don't know why this is my life and that's hers. I don't understand that, but I will do as my mother asked, and I will do the best I can with this life, to be of use."

 

This quote of hers always reminds me of what I have been through, and how the path of my life has been changed. I got the opportunity to save my life, get an education, play sports, have the freedom of choice, and continue to live in this world as a human being. I have been very lucky to not let my previous unpleasant experiences hold me back and stop me from pursuing my passions. I have received the full support of people around me – family, friends, teachers, mentors, and the community – to build a better present and best future not only for myself but also for those who need support.

 

As a girl whose life has been affected and experienced inequality and injustice firsthand, I can very easily relate, understand, and feel the challenges women are struggling with in my society. The goals of International Women’s Day have not yet been achieved to the extent that they should be. However, this goal is even further from achievement in countries such as Afghanistan, where the country is run by the Taliban, a group of men who do not think of women as human beings.

 

It has been almost three years since women had their voices legally shut down and muted, and were banned from everything – going to school, attending universities, or taking part in social activities and sports. The Afghan government legally permits gender apartheid. For me, it is not easy to stand here and mention all of these issues, even though I have experienced them firsthand and know how hard and unfair it is for anyone to deal with them. However, I have been given the chance to advocate and bring attention to these inequalities – not only in Afghanistan, but on a global scale. As someone who has experienced having her voice shut down, I will always advocate for others and continue to speak out about the treatment and injustice faced by all Afghan women and girls. It's important that the world does not turn a blind eye to the situation in Afghanistan.

 

The theme for International Women's Day 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion.” I hope we as a society can recognize the struggles of the women and girls in Afghanistan as well as the rest of the world and fight together for their rights to have voice and freedom. I look forward to the development of a society where all women are treated fairly and are heard for the wisdom and strength we offer the world.

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