Afghanistan

Nilofar’s activism started from a violent encounter with the Taliban at an early age. Out of fear for her life and due to the risk of forced marriage, for the majority of Nilofar’s childhood she was dressed as a boy, to ensure her safety and access to school.
During her university years, Nilofar actively engaged in journalism and championed women’s rights. Despite threats of violence after marrying a prominent Hazara diplomat, she persevered and founded multiple businesses in Afghanistan, generating employment opportunities for hundreds of women.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nilofar coordinated the distribution of food aid to 15,000 families in West Kabul. She established the Women’s Political Participation Network, uniting women from diverse backgrounds to advocate for collective political rights. Her family survived a violent attack in 2020.
Due to her profile, she was an immediate and high profile target when the Taliban resumed power in August 2021. She was interviewed as stating, “I am waiting for my death”. Nilofar was prioritized for urgent relocation to Poland where she has Temporary Residency status.
In Poland, Nilofar’s efforts garnered international recognition as an advocate for Afghan women and girls. She participated in numerous European conferences and collaborated with entities like the EU Special Representative for Afghanistan and the UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan. She also spoke at the TEDx Warsaw Women 2021 event.
As a Founding Partner of organisations in Poland and the USA, Nilofar continues to serve as CEO of Asia Times.Af and Editor in Akhbar-Alan, ensuring accurate coverage of Afghan news, particularly the ongoing challenges faced by women and girls.