Advertise on podcast: Awaz-e-Dosti | Season 2 (Afghan Voices)

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Humaira Ibrahim brings you the deeply personal story of an Afghan intersex person from Mazar-e-Sharif, Balkh Province.In this conversation, they share their life journey from childhood to young adulthood and speak openly about the challenges, discrimination, threats, and difficult experiences they have faced throughout their life. They reflect on the painful memories left by these experiences and how those moments have shaped their life and outlook. Despite the hardships, this is not only a story of struggle. They also talk about their achievements, personal successes, moments of strength, and the ways they have continued to move forward despite the obstacles they encountered. The conversation offers an opportunity to understand the experiences of an intersex person in Afghanistan through their own voice and perspective. It explores the realities of growing up, navigating social pressures, facing threats and insecurity, and finding the courage to build a meaningful life despite difficult circumstances. Through this personal story, Awaz-e-Dosti gives space to a voice that is often unheard and highlights both the challenges and resilience of an individual seeking dignity, safety, acceptance, and a hopeful future.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Humaira Ibrahim speaks with Sahar, an Afghan student whose education has been interrupted by the closure of schools for girls in Afghanistan. The conversation explores the impact of being deprived of education on Afghan girls, their families, and their future opportunities. Sahar shares how she and other girls felt when the doors of their schools were closed and how the loss of education has affected their lives, aspirations, and plans for the future. The discussion also looks at the longer-term consequences of restricting girls’ access to education and the challenges this may create for Afghan society in the years ahead. Despite these difficulties, Sahar talks about her dreams, hopes, and what she wants for her future. This episode gives voice to Afghan girls who continue to hope for the opportunity to learn, pursue their dreams, and build a better future.

In this special episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Sideeq Shariati speaks with Adeeba Atta, a fourth-semester student of Islamic Banking and Finance at the International Islamic University Islamabad and Representative of Afghan Female Students. The conversation explores the role of Afghan girls in education, leadership, and community service, as well as the challenges they face while pursuing their studies and contributing to their communities. Adeeba shares her experiences as an Afghan student in Pakistan and discusses her efforts to support Afghan students, promote unity and solidarity, and encourage greater participation in educational, cultural, and social activities. The episode also highlights Adeeba’s involvement in organizing cultural and educational initiatives, including Shab-e-Yalda celebrations, sports competitions, and other student activities. Through her experiences and perspectives, the discussion highlights the achievements, challenges, aspirations, and contributions of Afghan female students, while emphasizing the importance of education, leadership, community engagement, and hope for the future.

In this special episode of Awaaz-e-Dosti, host Ihsan Ullah Ahmadzai speaks with Islam Badshah Afridi, a member of the Pakistan International Human Rights Organization and an activist advocating for the rights of Afghan refugees. The conversation explores some of the key challenges facing Afghans in Pakistan, including repatriation, delays in third-country resettlement, access to healthcare and education, and the legal and socio-economic difficulties affecting refugee families. Afridi shares his perspective on the experiences of Afghans who have returned to Afghanistan, the challenges they face following repatriation, and the concerns of Afghan students whose education has been disrupted. The discussion also looks at the role of international humanitarian organizations, including UNHCR, in protection, advocacy, and support for vulnerable Afghan communities. The episode highlights the particular protection concerns of vulnerable groups, including women, children, students, and unaccompanied minors, while emphasizing the importance of human rights, legal protection, dignity, and access to essential services. The conversation concludes with a call for continued international support, constructive policy dialogue, and greater cooperation among governments and humanitarian organizations to help ensure that Afghan refugees and returnees are treated with dignity and that their fundamental rights, safety, and well-being remain protected. #AwaazEDosti #AfghanRefugees #RefugeeRights #Repatriation #HumanRights #Education #Healthcare #InternationalProtection

In this special episode of Awaaz-e-Dosti, host Ihsan Ullah Ahmadzai speaks with Advocate Salahuddin Khan Marwat, Advocate High Court Islamabad, former Civil Judge/Judicial Magistrate, and two-time elected Nazim/Chairman of Lakki Marwat, about the ongoing repatriation of Afghans from Pakistan and the legal challenges facing Afghan individuals and families. The discussion explores the legal status and rights of Afghans in Pakistan amid changing policies and enforcement measures. Advocate Salahuddin Khan Marwat explains the legal remedies and options that may be available to Afghans facing detention, deportation, or other legal difficulties, including UNHCR case holders, asylum seekers, and individuals seeking international protection. The episode also highlights the importance of access to justice, legal assistance, human rights, and international protection mechanisms, particularly for vulnerable Afghan families and individuals. The conversation aims to help affected communities better understand their legal options and the importance of seeking appropriate legal advice and pursuing protection through lawful channels.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Yasmin Yaqeen Nabizada speaks with Ms. Lina Aman, an Afghan human rights activist currently living in Pakistan. Migration is more than simply crossing borders—it often means leaving behind one’s home, memories, loved ones, and an entire way of life. For Afghan women and girls, displacement has brought additional challenges, including restrictions on education, employment, freedom, and other fundamental rights. In this powerful conversation, Lina Aman shares her personal experience of migration and discusses the struggles faced by Afghan women and girls living both inside Afghanistan and in exile. The episode also explores the challenges of displacement, the importance of protecting human rights, and the hopes Afghan women continue to place in the international community. Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation about courage, resilience, migration, and the ongoing struggle for dignity, justice, and equal rights.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Benazir Raofi speaks with Saleh Mohammad Amiri, a young Afghan who has been living in Pakistan under extremely difficult circumstances for the past two years. Hoping to receive medical treatment and build a better future, Saleh Mohammad Amiri applied to travel to Germany. He paid approximately 8,000 US dollars in application-related fees and had a sponsor supporting his case. With his hopes tied to this opportunity, he believed that reaching Germany could give him access to treatment and a chance to rebuild his life. However, despite his efforts, his visa was not issued by the German Embassy. He also sought help and protection from a United Nations agency, hoping for support or possible relocation, but the assistance and pathway he was hoping for did not materialize. Two years later, Saleh Mohammad Amiri continues to live with illness and physical challenges while waiting for a possible solution. He remains caught between hope and uncertainty—still wondering whether he might one day receive a visa, access the treatment he needs, or find another path toward safety and stability. This is not simply a story about a visa application or an immigration file. It is the story of a young Afghan who has spent two years navigating uncertainty while holding on to hope. In this conversation, Benazir Raofi hears Saleh Mohammad Amiri’s story in his own words: why he applied to go to Germany, what happened after spending thousands of dollars, why his visa was not granted, what response he received after seeking assistance from international organizations, and the challenges he has faced throughout these difficult two years. Most importantly, the episode explores what continues to give him hope and what message he wants to share with the German Embassy, the United Nations, and other relevant institutions.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Khosrow Mohajerzad discusses one of the most important issues facing Afghan society today: the challenges and future of Afghanistan’s young generation. Joining the program is Ms. Najia, who shares her thoughts on the difficulties young people face in accessing education, employment, and opportunities for personal growth. The discussion also explores the reasons why many young Afghans consider migration, the impact of migration on young people and their families, and whether leaving the country always guarantees a better future. The episode also reflects on an important question: if conditions and opportunities improve in Afghanistan, would young people choose to stay and contribute to the future of their country? Through this conversation, Awaz-e-Dosti brings forward the voices, concerns, hopes, and dreams of Afghanistan’s youth and their vision for a better and more peaceful future.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, we share the life story and remarkable journey of Sayed Faiz Ahmad Amiri, an Afghan artist who has dedicated much of his life to supporting and serving the Afghan community. Through his art, social work, and commitment to helping others, Sayed Faiz Ahmad Amiri has stood alongside members of his community despite facing numerous personal, social, and financial challenges throughout his life. However, years of emotional distress, difficult life circumstances, and personal struggles have deeply affected his well-being. Today, he lives with a disability and faces new challenges that have significantly changed his daily life and his ability to continue the work and artistic journey that once defined him. This episode explores his journey as an artist and community supporter, the challenges and hardships he has faced, his resilience in the face of adversity, and the hopes he continues to hold for the future. It is a story of art, service, struggle, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Guest: Sayed Faiz Ahmad Amiri, Afghan ArtistHost: Humaira Ibrahim

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Benazir Raofi speaks with Fatima Farahmand, an Afghan software engineer, women’s rights activist, and human rights defender from Bamyan Province. Fatima shares her professional journey in Afghanistan, her work with national and international organizations, and her commitment to women’s rights, education, and empowerment. She reflects on how the Taliban takeover changed her life and ultimately forced her to leave Afghanistan for her safety. Now living in Pakistan, Fatima discusses the challenges of displacement, including uncertainty, financial hardship, separation from family, and the impact of these experiences on the mental health of Afghan refugees. Despite these challenges, she continues to support women and children through education, mental health and art therapy initiatives, and human rights advocacy. She also shares her hopes for Afghanistan and explains why, despite being forced into exile, she would return if her country becomes peaceful, stable, and respectful of human rights.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Yasamin Yaqin Nabizada speaks with Maryam Rahmani, an Afghan actress and media practitioner, about her journey in acting, her experiences in the Afghan entertainment industry, and the role of art in reflecting the realities of society. Maryam shares how acting became more than a profession for her—it became a way to express emotions, highlight the challenges faced by Afghan women, and tell stories that are often left unheard. She discusses the social and cultural restrictions affecting women in Afghanistan and reflects on a role she played that portrayed the struggles of a woman facing harmful traditions and family pressures. The conversation also explores how Afghan women continue to pursue their dreams despite significant challenges, and how cinema and storytelling can bring their experiences to a wider international audience.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Shabnam Muhagirzaad explores the changing landscape of employment for Afghan women following the Taliban’s return to power. The episode looks at how restrictions on women’s education, employment, mobility, and participation in public life have affected their economic independence and livelihoods. It also examines the sectors where women continue to find opportunities to work and earn an income, despite the many challenges they face. Our guest, Ms. Tabassum Naseri, a journalist and social and media activist, shares her insights into the current situation of women’s employment in Afghanistan. The discussion explores the barriers women face in accessing the labor market, the impact of these restrictions on their economic and social well-being, and the role of international organizations and women’s rights groups in supporting women’s economic empowerment. The episode also considers what practical and sustainable measures could help expand employment and income-generating opportunities for Afghan women, both inside and outside Afghanistan. Awaz-e-Dosti brings forward the voices and experiences of Afghan communities and explores the challenges, opportunities, and issues that continue to shape their lives.

In this episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Humaira Ibrahim speaks with Atiya Tokhi, an English language teacher from Kabul, about one of the most significant turning points in Afghanistan’s recent history: August 15, 2021, the day the Taliban took control of Kabul. Atiya reflects on where she was when the Taliban entered the city, what she witnessed during those uncertain and frightening hours, and how her life changed in the days and years that followed. The conversation explores the situation of Afghan women and girls before and after August 2021, including the restrictions that have affected their access to education, employment, freedom of movement, and participation in public life. Five years after the Taliban’s return to power, Atiya shares her personal experiences, concerns, and hopes for the future. The interview also examines what Afghan women expect from human rights organizations and the international community in supporting and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan. Listen to this important conversation as we look back on August 15, 2021, through the voice and lived experience of an Afghan woman who continues to witness—and speak about—the changing reality of women and girls in Afghanistan.

Awaz-e-Dosti Special Episode with UNHCR Pakistan In this special episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Ihsan Ullah Ahmadzai speaks with Qaiser Khan Afridi, Spokesperson for UNHCR Pakistan, about the current situation of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers in Pakistan. The conversation explores the ongoing repatriation process, the concerns and risks faced by Afghan refugees and asylum seekers, and the legal and protection mechanisms available to those who may be at risk. Qaiser Khan Afridi explains UNHCR’s role in providing protection and humanitarian assistance, including financial and medical support, while also discussing the challenges surrounding third-country resettlement and other pathways to safety. The episode looks at UNHCR’s engagement and advocacy with the Government of Pakistan on issues including the rights, protection, documentation, and humane treatment of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers. For refugee families facing difficult decisions, this discussion provides important information about their rights, available assistance, protection options, and the implications of returning to Afghanistan. Through a humanitarian and human rights perspective, this episode aims to provide accurate, practical, and accessible information about the realities facing Afghans in Pakistan, while highlighting the principles of dignity, safety, non-refoulement, and respect for fundamental human rights. 🎙️ Listen to this important conversation with UNHCR Pakistan to better understand the current repatriation situation, protection concerns, humanitarian assistance, and possible pathways to safety for Afghan refugees and asylum seekers. UNHCR’s Role in Protection and AssistanceWhat Afghan Refugees and Asylum Seekers Need to Know #AwazEDosti #UNHCRPakistan #AfghanRefugees #AfghanAsylumSeekers #Afghanistan #Pakistan #RefugeeProtection #HumanRights #RefugeeRights #UNHCR #Repatriation #HumanitarianAssistance #NonRefoulement #PathwaysToSafety #AfghanCommunity

In this special episode of Awaz-e-Dosti, host Farida Raqi welcomes Farahnaz Baghlani, an Afghan teacher who dedicated nearly fifteen years of her life to educating young people in Afghanistan, teaching chemistry to 11th- and 12th-grade students. For years, the classroom was at the heart of Farahnaz’s life. She was not only a dedicated teacher but also a mother who dreamed of a safe and secure future for her children. However, the political changes in Afghanistan forced her to leave behind her home, profession, students, and the life she had built over many years. Her migration journey did not end with reaching Pakistan. Farahnaz and her children faced some of the most difficult realities of displacement, including detention, imprisonment, uncertainty, and the fear of forced deportation. In this episode, she speaks openly with Farida about those difficult days, the most painful moments of her journey, and the strength that helped her continue despite fear and uncertainty. As an experienced teacher, Farahnaz also reflects on the situation of Afghan women and girls who have been deprived of their right to education. She shares her perspective on what it means to see young girls lose access to classrooms, learning opportunities, and the future they once imagined. The conversation also explores Farahnaz’s transition from being a teacher to becoming involved in human rights activism. She discusses what motivated her to raise her voice for human rights and how her own experiences of migration and displacement have influenced her understanding of justice, dignity, identity, and the rights of Afghan women. Through Farida’s conversation with Farahnaz, this episode looks beyond statistics and headlines to explore the human reality behind migration. A migrant is not simply someone who has crossed a border—they may be a teacher, a mother, a professional, a community member, and a person carrying years of experience, dreams, and memories. Farahnaz shares the challenges faced by Afghan migrant women in Pakistan and discusses what she would say to the United Nations and the international community about their responsibilities toward Afghan women, children, and displaced families. She also reflects on an important question: If Afghanistan becomes safe and free, would she return to the classroom? The episode concludes with a powerful message for Afghan women and girls, followed by one final question: If a teacher who spent fifteen years educating students had only one minute to speak to the world, what would she say? 🎙️ Join host Farida and Farahnaz Baghlani on Awaz-e-Dosti for a powerful conversation about migration, education, motherhood, human rights, resilience, and hope. Awaz-e-Dosti — because behind every migration story, there is a human story waiting to be heard.