Five years have passed since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, following the collapse of the government in August 2021. During this time, Canada has provided refuge to more than 60,000 Afghan individuals, including Farkhunda Hashimy. Hashimy, who was a high school student in Kabul when the Taliban seized power, has found solace and freedom in Saskatoon since arriving with her family in 2023.
Reflecting on life before the Taliban’s rule, Hashimy recalled the opportunities she had as a young woman in Afghanistan, where she had the chance to attend high school and aspire to further education and career prospects. However, the Taliban’s regime abruptly halted these aspirations, denying girls the right to pursue education beyond Grade 6 and imposing various restrictions on women’s daily lives.
Natasha Arnpriester, a senior legal counsel at the Open Society Justice Initiative, highlighted the stark contrast in women’s rights before and after the Taliban’s rule. Arnpriester, who is preparing a case against the Taliban for the International Court of Justice, emphasized the significant regression in women’s freedoms and opportunities under the current regime.
Despite her disrupted dreams of pursuing higher education and sports like soccer, Hashimy remains hopeful for the future. She expressed gratitude for the support she and her family received from the 30 Birds Foundation, a group dedicated to assisting Afghan women and girls in seeking safety outside of Afghanistan. Over 400 Afghan women and girls, including Hashimy’s family, have been aided by the foundation in relocating to Saskatoon.
Hashimy, now studying urban planning at the University of Saskatchewan, cherishes the safety and opportunities Canada offers. While embracing her new life in Saskatchewan, her thoughts remain with the women and girls enduring hardships in Afghanistan. She aspires to empower herself to make a difference for those still oppressed under the Taliban’s rule.
The unwavering support and opportunities in Canada have inspired Hashimy to work towards her goals and contribute to the development of new cities, driven by her desire to help those still suffering in her homeland.
Hashimy’s journey reflects the resilience and determination of Afghan refugees seeking a brighter future, even as they carry the weight of their homeland’s struggles in their hearts.
