These are the inspiring journeys of young Afghan women whose lives have been transformed through access to education. Each story is a testament to the resilience, courage, and potential of a new generation of leaders. Thanks to the support of donors, institutions, and advocates, these women are not only building brighter futures for themselves—but also paving the way for others.
Success Stories
Hasina Hamidi – From Uncertainty to Opportunity
After graduating from Kabul University and working in Afghanistan’s telecom sector, Hasina was forced to flee due to the Taliban’s restrictions on women. Her determination to pursue education led her to Kazakhstan, where she discovered WLOT. With our support, she secured a life-changing scholarship to Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada.
Today, Hasina is studying International Public Policy and working toward becoming an Economic Policy Analyst—empowered to lead and inspire.
Marina Musleh – A Voice for the Next Generation
When the Taliban banned girls’ education, Marina refused to let her dreams end. Determined to become the first woman president of Afghanistan, she reached out to WLOT for support. Through our mentorship and advocacy, she secured a full scholarship to Shawnigan Lake School in Canada—where she now studies with passion and purpose.
Marina’s story is one of fearless ambition and hope for a better Afghanistan.
Habiba Nazari – Paving the Way in Engineering
Habiba is one of ten courageous Afghan women who reached out to WLOT in pursuit of higher education. Thanks to the support of our generous donors, she began her journey in Applied Mining Engineering at the University of British Columbia in January 2023. Her resilience and drive are shaping new paths for Afghan women in STEM.
Tahira Khalili – A Light in the Darkness
After the Taliban takeover in 2021, Tahira felt her future vanish—until she received a life-changing scholarship through WLOT to study at Crofton House School in Vancouver. This opportunity reignited her dreams and gave her a renewed sense of purpose.
Arezo Ibrahimi – Engineering a Brighter Future
Born in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, Arezo built her career in geological engineering before the Taliban’s ban on women’s education left her stranded in Kazakhstan. Through WLOT’s advocacy and the support of generous donors, she and nine peers were granted full scholarships to pursue master’s degrees at UBC. Today, Arezo is continuing her journey in Applied Mining Engineering, fueled by resilience and hope.
Torpikai & Zarmina – Rising Strong From Uncertainty to Opportunity
After surviving deadly school bombings in Kabul and escaping Taliban rule, sisters Torpikai and Zarmina were granted scholarships to study at St. Margaret’s School in Victoria, BC. Today, they’re rebuilding their futures through education — and inspiring others with their courage and determination.
Roya Shafai – Fighting for Her Dreams On and Off the Mat
When the Taliban banned women from sports and education in Afghanistan, Roya Shafai didn’t give up—she reached higher. A national-level Judo athlete and passionate advocate for gender equality, Roya connected with WLOT and became the first participant to study at a college in Ontario.
Thanks to WLOT’s GOAL program and the support of Loyalist College, Roya is now studying Fitness and Health Promotion, working toward her dream of coaching the next generation of female athletes.