For 25 years, we have remained committed to Afghan and immigrant communities providing support, protection, and opportunity to thousands during times of profound change. Throughout many challenges and historic moments one thing has remained constant: our commitment to securing and advocating for the dignity, and rights of women, girls, and their families. At the backbone of this work are our incredible colleagues in Afghanistan and the United States. As we celebrate 25 years of impact, we asked them to share their reflections as their impact is deeply felt by the women and families who rely on our programs.
Read below what four staff from Afghanistan had to share as we celebrate 25 years.
Meet Needa, Teacher at the Children’s Support Center in Badakhshan.
“I was born in Afghanistan and have spent a large part of my life under challenging circumstances. As an Afghan woman, I have consistently faced social, economic, and security restrictions, and the experience of being a refugee has also been part of my life journey.
I became familiar with WAW through its social and support activities for women and girls. The mission and values of WAW aligned closely with my personal beliefs and goals, which motivated me to become interested in working with and serving the organization.
The achievements and progress of WAW over the past 25 years fill me with pride and hope for a better future. Throughout these years, WAW has consistently stood beside and supported women and girls who have faced numerous economic, social, physical, and psychological challenges. Since becoming a member of the WAW family, I have personally witnessed significant progress and positive changes in the lives of many individuals supported by this organization in Afghanistan.
Two of my former students of the Badakhshan Child Support Center, began their educational journey with WAW and are now studying at some of the best universities in the United States. I feel that I am part of a meaningful journey that has positively transformed the lives of many women and girls, and I am proud to have played—even as a small member—a role in these changes.”
Meet Wida, Manager of the Children’s Support Center.
“I had many friends who were working at WAW and whenever I met them, they would tell me about their work, the friendly atmosphere among the employees, and their lofty goals of serving vulnerable women. These stories inspired me and increased my interest in joining the organization in 2012. When I think back on my years of working with WAW, and today, as the organization turns 25, I feel a deep sense of pride and honor for its achievements.
Even in the current difficult conditions in Afghanistan, all employees, with a deep understanding of the current situation, continue to work committedly towards the organization’s goals. This collective spirit brightens the future of WAW and increases my hope for its effective role in supporting women and children.
WAW has never charged a fee for providing support, health, psychological, educational, or other humanitarian services. This honest and humanitarian approach has led women and girls to refer to this organization with confidence and recognize it as a safe and reliable space.”
Meet Emamuddin, Deputy Manager at the Children’s Support Center, Balkh.
“For more than twenty years, I have been engaged in supporting the rights of children and women. Along this journey, I have faced various obstacles and challenges, yet these difficulties taught me patience and strengthened my sense of responsibility. Even in the current difficult conditions of Afghanistan, all staff members, with a deep understanding of the situation, remain committed and sincere in pursuing the organization’s goals. This collective spirit and organizational culture make the future of WAW bright and promising, and it gives me hope that this institution will continue to play an important role in supporting women and children. Regardless of ethnicity, religion, race, language, or nationality, the organization works to restore the human rights of vulnerable women and children in Afghanistan.”
Meet Sharafuddin, Admin and Finance Associate
“I am originally from Logar Province, Afghanistan, and spent a large part of my life as a refugee
in Pakistan. Living as a refugee was challenging, with limited access to stability, education, and basic services, but it also taught me resilience, adaptability, and responsibility at an early age. I joined the organization in 2017, and over the years WAW has consistently combined direct services with strong advocacy, providing culturally sensitive support while amplifying the voices of Afghan women. Its ability to adapt to changing conditions while remaining rooted in the community has allowed it to create a lasting impact over decades.
Reflecting on my years with WAW, as it turns 25, makes me feel proud and grateful. I have witnessed how WAW has grown from a small organization into a strong and trusted voice for Afghan women and girls. The organization has provided education, legal support, and safe spaces for thousands of women, helping them reclaim their rights and build a better future.
Being part of a team that stands up for women’s dignity and rights in such challenging circumstances is truly inspiring. Continuing to provide support and protection despite
restrictions and limited resources will be essential for the future.”
The reflections of our brave staff in Afghanistan remind us that creating change is done through commitment and compassion. Support the next 25 years of impact by donating to our life-saving programs in Afghanistan and the United States.