In Episode 3 Emily speaks with Pashtana Durrani.

Durrani’s experiences witnessing discrimination against Afghan refugees motivated her to start LEARN Afghanistan in 2018. The Non-Profit Organization provides quality education for children, especially girls in Afghanistan using innovative methods.

Despite the Taliban’s repression, Durrani has found ways around the restrictions. Her approach centers on collaborating with local tribal leaders to gain their support, making it a community-driven initiative. She emphasizes that Afghan communities are not inherently against educating girls but are often constrained by safety concerns due to the Taliban’s bans.

Through radio programs, microbytes (short, downloadable lessons), and remote learning the organization is able to deliver education in areas where traditional schooling is inaccessible. Though the Taliban holds power, she believes that Afghan women will continue to find ways to learn and work, especially through technology.

Durrani is currently unable to return to Afghanistan but remains hopeful for the future of Afghan girls and the resilience of her country.