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Leaving my home and family behind was a difficult step, but the kindness and support I received helped me continue pursuing my dreams.

I destroyed my scout uniform and any documents that connected me to scouting because I knew that being identified could have serious consequences.

From aspiring to become a doctor to dreaming of becoming an entrepreneur, I am determined to pursue my goals.

As an Afghan student, I am passionate about advocating for Afghan girls and using my voice to promote education, opportunity, and equality.

Education is very important to me because it gives me the chance to build the future I dream of.

After the Taliban took over Afghanistan, women were banned from attending schools higher than sixth grade. I was in tenth grade at that time.

I moved to the United States when I was 14 and just finished my freshman year of high school.

I was in 10th grade when the Taliban took over and was no longer able to continue my studies in my home country.

In Afghanistan I worked as an office manager and taught English in two secret schools for girls. At a time when educational opportunities for girls were severely restricted, this work was both meaningful and dangerous.