Featured Writings from Our Partners

“The Silent Bird”

A haunting poem about homesickness, displacement, and loneliness, The Story of a Silent Bird uses the image of a caged bird to explore the emotional weight of exile and the longing for a place that no longer feels like home. Through powerful metaphors of nature, silence, and loss, the poem reflects on identity, belonging, and the quiet suffering carried by those forced to leave everything behind.

“Dreams Have No Gender”

Why should gender determine a person's future? In this thoughtful opinion essay, the author argues that education, employment, and personal freedom are fundamental rights that should never be limited by gender. Drawing on the experiences of Afghan women and girls, the piece explores how equal opportunities empower individuals, strengthen communities, and create a more just society for everyone.

“A Future Inspired by Ladyland”

Inspired by Sultana's Dream, this reflection explores the power of imagination to challenge gender inequality and reimagine a more just society. Drawing connections between Ladyland and the realities faced by Afghan women today, it examines freedom, equality, and the hope for a future where women and men stand side by side.

“Hope in the Dark”

Drawing on recent events and lived experience, this piece sheds light on the growing restrictions imposed on Afghan women and girls while highlighting their resilience, courage, and unwavering hope. It is both a testimony and a call for global solidarity.

“Silence in Herat and Kabul: A Story of Change, Fear, and Hope”

A powerful reflection on the realities faced by Afghan women and girls under increasing restrictions. Through a personal lens, this piece captures the fear, silence, and uncertainty experienced in Kabul and Herat while highlighting the resilience, courage, and enduring hope of those who continue to dream despite oppression.

“Women, Life, Freedom: The Fight for Human Rights Under Taliban Rule”

This article documents the Taliban's escalating restrictions on women in Herat through firsthand accounts from EmpowerHer students, reports of protests and violence, and the lived experiences of Afghan women facing fear, uncertainty, and repression. It highlights the resilience of Afghan women while calling for sustained international support, advocacy, and access to education and opportunity.

“How Education and Art Empower Afghan Girls”

In this piece, EmpowerHer Creative Arts Workshop mentor and Afghan student-artist Sabira Hussaini reflects on how education and art empower Afghan girls. Through her painting Omulbanin: The Girl Who Dreamed of Harvard and her work with EmpowerHer, she honors lost dreams while inspiring girls to believe in their power to create change.

“Leading with Resilience: My Journey as an Afghan Student and Advocate”