Today, Aryan finds himself caught in a relentless struggle, grappling with the harsh realities of life under Taliban rule. For the past nine months, he has been working tirelessly to secure a scholarship and prepare for the IELTS exam—a crucial gateway to future opportunities abroad and a means to support his family.
Recently, Aryan’s father has faced increasingly dangerous, near-death situations, adding significant stress and worry to their already challenging pursuit of a better life. Aryan was compelled to return to Iran illegally to be fully present for his father during this critical time. Despite these hardships, Aryan remains determined to support his father and provide for his family during these trying times. Donations are urgently needed to help Aryan take the next step in his journey and secure his family’s future.
In an effort to cope with the mental toll of his circumstances, Aryan has recently started online therapy, facilitated by a group of Freethinkers. He describes feeling slightly less burdened by stress, although his struggles remain significant, and his need to escape these conditions persists.
The reality outside his personal challenges is bleak. One major issue Aryan has observed is the Taliban’s ban on girls attending courses, leaving the streets eerily devoid of young women. Desperation grows among families as fathers scramble to find ways to send their daughters abroad for education, despite restrictive passport policies. “We’re stuck,” Aryan says, summarizing the collective sentiment of entrapment.
Reflecting on the disparity between Afghanistan and the rest of the world, Aryan shares his thoughts: “The disparity between Afghanistan and the world beyond is painfully clear.” He recently watched footage from CES 2025 in Nevada, where young women showcased groundbreaking technologies. The stark contrast struck him deeply. While girls in the United States lead innovation, those in Afghanistan are barred even from public parks.
Despite the grim situation, Aryan clings to hope. He believes that Afghanistan’s critical thinkers can one day reclaim the country’s future. “We are not extremists,” he insists. “The Taliban doesn’t represent who we are.”
For the previous chapters of Aryan’s journey, tap the “Support Alias” tag on this page. If you would like to support Aryan, you can also donate through the link provided here.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to read his story and for any support you can offer.
