Kalijn’s motivation grew from gratitude. When she first started training, she was thankful that her body was healthy enough to run. The routine of lacing up, stepping outside, and becoming stronger made her recognise that this ability is not equally available to everyone. She began thinking about women on the other side of the world who may possess the same drive and ambition, yet do not have the same choices. That realization changed the meaning of her miles. Running remained a personal challenge, but it also became a visible reminder that freedom is never something to take for granted.
Women for Afghan Women works in solidarity with Afghan women and girls, and Kalijn’s fundraiser directs attention—and resources—toward that work. The fundraising page’s goal is €3,000, with early donations already moving the campaign forward. Every contribution, whether it comes from a sponsor, friend, family member, or someone inspired by her story, becomes part of a wider statement: women’s rights deserve sustained attention. The campaign is not about presenting running as a solution to a complex crisis. It is about using a personal platform responsibly, amplifying a cause, and inviting a community to act with care, urgency, and hope.
That is what makes Kalijn’s journey resonant. It connects a familiar scene—a runner on a quiet road, training at sunrise or moving through a leafy path—with a global commitment. The marathon demands patience, discipline, and repeated effort; meaningful advocacy does too. There is no single stride that completes either journey. Instead, progress is built through consistent action: showing up, speaking up, sharing a campaign, and choosing not to look away. Kalijn’s decision to run for Afghan women honours both the scale of the challenge and the value of individual initiative. It reminds us that empathy can be active and generous.
Her story offers an invitation to supporters, runners, and anyone who believes in equality.
Donate to Kalijn’s GoFundMe for Women for Afghan Women here. She is going the distance—and asking others to join her—for Afghan women everywhere.
