After the collapse of the government in August 2021, the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, marking five years since then. During this time, more than 60,000 Afghan refugees have found a new home in Canada.
Among these refugees is Farkhunda Hashimy, who arrived in Saskatoon with her family in 2023. Prior to the Taliban’s rule, Hashimy was a high school student in Kabul, where she had the freedom to pursue education and a career.
The Taliban’s restrictions have significantly impacted the lives of women and girls in Afghanistan. Prior to the takeover, there were over 100,000 women in higher education, but now girls are prohibited from education beyond Grade 6. Natasha Arnpriester, a senior legal counsel, is working on a case against the Taliban for the International Court of Justice to address these issues.
Hashimy, who had dreams of attending university and becoming an athlete, saw her aspirations dashed by the Taliban’s rule. Women in Afghanistan are facing severe restrictions, including being banned from secondary and higher education, needing male accompaniment to leave their homes, and being prohibited from speaking in public.
Hashimy’s family decided to leave Kabul due to safety concerns, and with the help of the 30 Birds Foundation, they were able to relocate to Saskatoon. The foundation has supported over 400 Afghan women and girls in reaching safety in Canada.
Hashimy, now studying urban planning at the University of Saskatchewan, expressed her gratitude for the new opportunities in Canada. While she enjoys her new life, her thoughts remain with the women and girls still living under the Taliban’s rule in Afghanistan. She hopes to make a difference and help them in the future.