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Islam Bibi (1974-2013) was a courageous female police officer in Afghanistan who defied societal norms to join the police force. As the highest-ranking policewoman in the country at the time, she led operations against the Taliban and pioneered efforts to counter their influence. Despite facing adversity and violence, Bibi’s unwavering commitment to justice and women’s rights left a lasting impact on Afghan society.
Somaya Faruqi, born in 2002 in Herat city, Afghanistan, overcame the restrictions imposed by the Taliban to pursue her passion for engineering. As the captain of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team, she led her team to international recognition and helped develop a low-cost ventilator prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faruqi’s accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and recognition, making her an inspiration to young girls in Afghanistan and beyond.
Malalai Kakar, born in 1967, was a courageous policewoman in Afghanistan who rose to become the head of Kandahar’s department of crimes against women. She was the first woman to graduate from the Kandahar Police Academy and became a vital presence in law enforcement, breaking down gender barriers in a country influenced by the Taliban. Tragically, she was assassinated by the Taliban on September 28, 2008, leaving behind six children.
Jamila Afghani is a feminist and activist for women’s rights and education in Afghanistan. Despite facing challenges due to polio, she founded the Noor Educational and Capacity Development Organization to empower women and children through education. Afghani also works to challenge misconceptions about Islam and engages religious leaders to promote women’s rights. Her efforts have led to a shift in perception and empowered men to become advocates for women in Afghan society. In 2022, she was awarded the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity.
Hasina Jalal is an advocate for women’s rights and democracy in Afghanistan. She has played a significant role in promoting gender equality and empowering Afghan women and girls. Her dedication to these causes has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.
Amina Azimi, born in Afghanistan in the 1980s, is an advocate for disabled women’s rights in her country. Her life has been shaped by the ongoing Afghan Civil War, which resulted in a tragic loss for her at a young age. At the tender age of 11, Azimi lost her right leg when a rocket propelled grenade struck her home. This devastating event placed her in the large group of disabled Afghans, in a country where disability rates are amongst the highest in the world.
Malalai of Maiwand, a national folk hero of Afghanistan, played a pivotal role in the Battle of Maiwand during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. Born in 1861 in the village of Khig, she bravely tended to the wounded and lifted the Afghan flag in the face of adversity. Her courage and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
Robina Jalali, also known as Robina Muqimyar, was a trailblazing athlete and political figure from Afghanistan. Born on July 3, 1986, in Kabul, Jalali defied societal expectations and cultural norms, showcasing her tenacity and determination in both the world of sports and politics.
Meena Keshwar Kamal, a revolutionary political activist, feminist, and founder of RAWA, dedicated her life to fighting for women’s rights in Afghanistan. Despite the lack of progress in addressing women’s deprivation, Meena campaigned against the government and challenged societal norms through her bilingual feminist magazine, Payam-e-Zan. Her legacy as a fearless champion for women’s rights lives on, inspiring others to continue the fight for true freedom and equality.