The Quiet Pulse of Peace
An inspired story of dedication, growth, and possibility
Every morning, Rukhsar begins her day with a gratitude practice. Gratitude grounds her in all her blessings, and without it her day feels off. She then dives into hours of research and organizing–learning new skills, reading, preparing presentations for the peace leadership sessions she leads for Afghan women and girls. As an active grassroots peacebuilder, she takes great pride in the initiatives she organizes and facilitates.
She does outreach to peacebuilders around the world to coordinate schedules for their guest speaking contributions to her training programs. Rukhsar spends time each day chatting with the women and girls in her program, as she loves to maintain daily support for what they’re learning and what they may need. Rukhsar then studies Turkish on Duolingo or reads Turkish books to practice. When university is in session, Rukhsar may balance all of this with about 10 hours a day of studying and assignments, and when it's not in session she maintains 3-4 hours of studying each day.
Within a big family, Rukhsar contributes to a lot of housework throughout the day. She likes to end each day with reading a book for fun, chatting on the phone with her best friend who lives outside of Afghanistan–as all her friends have left the country–listening to a podcast, and, if there’s some time, watching YouTube videos and reciting the Quran.
These are impressively full days for anyone. Under oppressive restrictions and orders of Taliban rule, these full days underscore the immense determination, perseverance, eagerness, curiosity, and brilliance of Afghan women today. With the backdrop of women losing the right to go to school, to walk freely outside the home, to even wear whatever color they want, Rukhsar’s relentless passion, willingness, and commitment are powerful practices of courageous resistance.
The seed of Rukhsar’s resilience and leadership was planted in childhood. She grew up in a community where discrimination was rampant. Starting from a young age, Rukhsar learned what so many of us unfortunately learn - that “the other,” people who are different from us, can never be friends. Afghanistan is an incredibly diverse country with many ethnicities - Pashtuns, Uzbeks, Tajiks, Hazaras, to name a few - and Rukhsar was told that this diverse array of ethnicities are not good for each other, nor do they want good for each other due to their longstanding history of conflict, and they are too different to have anything in common.
This belief was turned upside down for Rukhsar when she attended an international school at age 13. This school brought together students from across Afghanistan, of different ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses. Rukshsar didn’t know the other girls’ ethnicities, but started becoming friends. She learned that her best friends at school were actually Hazara and Pashtun, opening Rukhsar to a sense of oneness that fostered a new understanding. Rukhsar shared, “we have the same goals, and that kindness and that love that I see within them brought me to a conclusion that we should never believe something that we hear in the community, and rather reflect on what we experience with those people and never judge people by their backgrounds or the language they speak or something else that’s different from us. That was a beautiful experience in my life and I’m happy that I still have those girls I met when I was 13. I call those friends my soul sisters.” From this point forward, Rukhsar aimed to create meaningful relationships and build peaceful communities.
With the support of her family, and her inner courage to prove herself against all odds and low societal expectations for women, Rukhsar continued on to study a Bachelor’s degree, and to serve as a journalist, a translator, and press secretary for the Ministry of Education. As a woman she had to fight exponentially harder for her progress and accomplishments. Rukhsar’s inner light, strength, and ambition held and guided her to great heights.
When the Taliban again took power, within an instant Rukhsar saw her accomplishments, dreams, and hopes disappear. Rights taken away as if at the snap of fingers. Afghan women instantly became one of the most oppressed, isolated, and persecuted peoples. Through immense struggle, chaos, and loss, Rukhsar became the embodiment of Maya Angelou’s words, “I’ll rise.” What felt like the world closing in on Rukhsar, opened up a new journey as a peacebuilder, bringing Rukhsar to where she is today as a powerful woman peace leader. By her own example she wants to show the world what Afghan women are capable of, while lifting up others along her journey.
Now four years into this new regime of Taliban rule, Rukhsar ensures that Afghan women will never be forgotten in their pursuit of freedom. In this effort, we interviewed Rukhsar in early 2025, to learn more about her journey, her active peacebuilding work and vision for the future, and what each of us can do in solidarity and support of the women of Afghanistan.
“I am advocating peace and leadership, building alliances for change, and providing education and support to people in my community. This initiative reflects my commitment to fostering a brighter future for Afghan girls and creating pathways for meaningful change. ”
How did you find yourself involved in your current work and peacebuilding work? Who or what inspired you?
I have always been an ambitious individual who believes that there is no limit to what we can learn, accomplish, and contribute. This mindset has driven me to engage in various activities, from being a journalist and translator to becoming a coding girl, volunteering for Afghan orphan children, and working as a peacebuilder. I constantly strive to become the best version of myself and to be an active participant in my community.
While I enthusiastically seek new opportunities, I draw inspiration from several factors and individuals. First, my mother serves as a role model for me. Her relentless hard work inspires me every day, and she never misses an opportunity to encourage us to learn more and work harder. Additionally, my father has always been a source of motivation through his acts of kindness and support for others. He reminds me that a good heart always triumphs and that we should never expect anything in return for the good we do.
Furthermore, the countless Afghan girls pursuing their goals despite significant challenges inspire me. My best friends also motivate me. They are not only kind-hearted but also successful women in their careers, overcoming obstacles along the way.
Last but not least, Ms. sylvia from the Euphrates Institute has been my greatest source of motivation. Since the moment I met her, her unwavering support and kindness have consistently amazed me. If there is a woman leader I aspire to emulate, it is certainly her.
In summary, I find inspiration in my personal goals, my community, and anyone dedicated to bringing about positive change in their own lives or the lives of others. I strive to learn from their journeys and contributions, as they fuel my passion for peacebuilding.
Do you have an origin story or a moment when you saw your path in peace? Bring us back to that moment.
2023 was a turning point in my life that led me to pursue peacebuilding. To illustrate, every moment of 2023 was filled with darkness for me. I had lost my job and my freedom, and I felt as though all my hard work and 16 years of education had vanished. I feared I would never be able to get back on track. During this challenging time, I was striving to bring about change in my situation while trying to control my feelings of fear, sadness, and even anger. At the same time, I was accepted into the Peace Practice Alliance (PPA) 2023 program, which was a significant opportunity for me. My official journey in peacebuilding began when I joined the PPA program. This program introduced me to peacebuilders from around the globe and provided me with professional knowledge about peacebuilding techniques and strategies. I dedicated myself to absorbing everything we were taught in the sessions. By applying the lessons and practices, I began to feel better and found my way back on track. This experience marked a turning point in my peacebuilding journey. Since then, I have never lost my way. Whenever I feel lost, there is a force within me that keeps me going and striving for peace.
As you faced challenges, what helped you move forward in your path? Do you have any experiences that affirmed your desire to keep going?
I believe that we are shaped by the challenges and struggles we face daily. My desire to become an independent woman and my belief in my potential to change my life for the better have been crucial in helping me move forward. Additionally, my endless goals motivate me to keep going. The support of my family and best friends has always been my backbone. Seeing the positive impact of my work on my personal life and achieving goals in various areas also inspires me. Furthermore, witnessing the changes in those I have guided and hearing them talk about the impact of my support motivates me to keep striving for progress.
What does your work as a peace leader look like in your current context?
As a peace leader in my current context, I engage in various activities that promote education and empower women. For instance, I am running two separate projects. The first is the "Afghan Girls Leading Peace Project," a one-year initiative with monthly sessions focused on personal peace, open to all Afghan girls who wish to participate.
My second project, supported by Euphrates, is a three-month program consisting of ten sessions, titled "Afghan Girls for Peace." This program teaches girls about personal peace, interpersonal peace, community peace, global peace, peace leadership, and other essential topics to equip them with the skills needed for peace leadership in their communities.
For the “Afghan Girls for Peace” program, I have selected 20 young girls after reviewing their applications. These participants not only learn about peace leadership but also engage in practical group work to enhance their skills. Additionally, they have the opportunity to connect with peace leaders from around the world. By providing them with this opportunity and checking in with them daily, we strive to learn how to create peaceful communities.
What are you most proud of in your peacebuilding work so far?
I am most proud of establishing the Afghan Women’s Peace Alliance (AWPA) in my peacebuilding work. I initiated AWPA on my own, driven by a desire to uplift Afghan girls and ensure they have access to education, particularly in leadership roles in their own lives. Despite facing numerous challenges, I embraced the responsibility to advocate for our Afghan girls and took significant steps to educate them. Through AWPA, I am advocating peace and leadership, building alliances for change, and providing education and support to people in my community. This initiative reflects my commitment to fostering a brighter future for Afghan girls and creating pathways for meaningful change.
How would you define peace?
Peace, to me, is the sustaining breath of existence, an irreplaceable force without which life withers. Like oxygen, it nourishes the soul, animates communities, and binds humanity. To live devoid of peace, whether within oneself or the world, is to exist without truly living. Having craved peace all my life, I know it is not merely an ideal; it is the essence of existence itself, the quiet pulse that reminds us we are alive.
What, if any, regular practices do you have to foster peace in yourself?
To foster peace within myself, I engage in several daily practices. Prayer brings me a sense of tranquility, and I also enjoy mindfulness. Other activities I partake in include taking long walks with my mom, reading books, and having meaningful conversations with my best friend. Intentionally spending time with my family is another key practice for me. During moments when I struggle to find solace, I treat myself to coffee, take time to journal, and reflect on my feelings. Additionally, helping others in any capacity brings me peace as well.
What keeps you in this work and motivates you to continue?
I am motivated to continue this work because of my strong passion for peace and empowering others. Seeing the positive changes that education and leadership can bring to individuals and communities inspires me every day. My personal experiences have strengthened my commitment to advocating for those whose voices are often unheard. The support I receive from my community drives me to keep going. Ultimately, I hope for a future where every girl has the chance to succeed, and that vision keeps me dedicated to this important work. My commitment to friendship, education, and personal growth drives my passion for peacebuilding, and I am dedicated to fostering harmony wherever I can.
“Peace, to me, is the sustaining breath of existence, an irreplaceable force without which life withers. Like oxygen, it nourishes the soul, animates communities, and binds humanity. To live devoid of peace, whether within oneself or the world, is to exist without truly living. ”
What vision do you hold for yourself, your community, your organization, and beyond?
I want to become a successful woman who is not limited to just one degree or one field of work. My ambition is to excel not only as a journalist or a software engineer, but to hold a vision for myself that goes beyond just one or two titles. I aspire to achieve multiple goals, such as earning two master's degrees and exploring the world. I want my actions to speak louder than my words. When I talk about success, I don’t want it to benefit only my own life. I want to align my work and goals in a way that also benefits others.
In my community, I envision a future where more girls receive the support they need to learn and grow. I aim to create programs that help build their confidence and skills. Seeing girls empowered and independent is one of my biggest wishes in life. I believe that when girls have opportunities, they can change their lives and those of others around them.
Within my organization, AWPA, I see myself collaborating with other organizations to start projects that help people in need, particularly girls. My goal is to reach more girls and provide them with the resources they need to succeed. I want to create an environment where education and empowerment are accessible to all.
Looking beyond my community, I hope for a world where everyone can live in peace and understand each other. I want my efforts to contribute to a better future for all, where kindness and cooperation are at the forefront of our interactions. My vision is to be part of a global movement that fosters unity and supports the dreams of individuals everywhere.
“Seeing girls empowered and independent is one of my biggest wishes in life. I believe that when girls have opportunities, they can change their lives and those of others around them.”
How can we best support your work? Are there any resources or organizations that you support or you have been supported by that you’d like to share?
As you know, working in Afghanistan is not easy, especially in a situation where people face poverty and the majority of girls do not have financial stability. I have tried to volunteer for girls and conduct sessions; however, most of the girls who want to attend the sessions and learn do not even have the ability to pay for their internet costs. Therefore, I would appreciate support to help cover the internet costs or any other expenses the girls need to attend the sessions. This support would be crucial for my work and the continuation of my projects.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in becoming a peace leader?
My advice for someone who wants to become a peace leader is to acknowledge that no one is born a peace leader. Rather, they can become one by striving and dedicating their time to their work. Additionally, based on my own experience, peace leadership is not something that can be limited to one year, two years, or even five years of practice. Someone who wants to become a peace leader must be committed to this path for the rest of their lives. They must put their whole heart into peace leadership because, in our journey to make the world better, we must first have a positive attitude towards what we do and approach it with enthusiasm.
Moreover, a person who aspires to be a peace leader might sometimes feel barriers that make them doubt their efforts. Despite these challenges, one should keep going, as peace leadership is not a one-day process; it requires dedication and love.
“My advice for someone who wants to become a peace leader is to acknowledge that no one is born a peace leader. Rather, they can become one by striving and dedicating their time to their work.”
As someone who was born and grew up in a country where girls have to fight much harder than the boys to achieve their dreams, and as someone who has seen her achievements and dreams turned to nothing overnight, my message to everyone regardless of age or gender is this: Our dreams are valid no matter how many times we have to start over and we mustn’t give up on them. There is always a way to achieve our dreams and become the best version of ourselves. Maybe there are times when we have to wait a long time for our dreams to come true, but if we are dedicated and passionate enough we will ultimately achieve them. And even in the darkest moments there is always a light within us. As my favorite Afghan poet Rumi also says, “if everything around you seems dark, look around, you may be the light.” That’s something I want to emphasize. We shouldn't use that light within us just to brighten our own light. We should always find ways to uplift others in whatever ways we can. I want to share a quote from my favorite author and activist Maya Angelou whose quotes and sayings I was really in love with even before I knew her and when I was about 14 or 15 years old. Her quote says, “You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I'll rise.” This is something that I always, always repeat with myself whenever I want to do something or am down - “I’ll rise, I’ll rise, I’ll rise.”
