Fear to freedom: The Shah family's journey

In August 2021, the Shah family faced the unsettling impact of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, disrupting the educational journey of their two eldest daughters. Muska, aged 20, had already completed two semesters of her computer sciences degree at university before her future was abruptly altered.

Muska, grappled with overwhelming anxiety and depression as the Taliban seized control of her home country. The sudden imposition of restrictions on women and girls from exercising their fundamental rights, including freedom of assembly, movement, work, and education made her feel trapped, with her hopes and dreams confined. The uncertainty and chaos left her feeling hopeless, questioning the value of pursuing her education where such upheavals could disrupt everything she worked so hard for.

The courage to reach out for help

To add to this chaos, the daughters were in a constant state of stress and worry due to threats their family received linked to their father's involvement in supporting the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in Afghanistan.  He was the vice president and the last rightful owner of Tundra Security Consulting Afghanistan (SCA), an Afghan security company contracted by the Department of National Defence to stand on guard outside Canadian military forward operating bases. These connections to Canada exposed the girls to their father’s bi-weekly intimidation and beatings by the Taliban on their doorstep. Beyond the jeopardy imposed on their future due to gender, their father's life remained under constant threat due to his association with Canada. 

Witnessing this harsh treatment of her father by the Taliban for over two years, Muska courageously took it upon herself to reach out to Aman Lara for help where we supported and guided her in navigating all the necessary steps for their safe evacuation to a third country. 

Months later, on January 19th, 2024, the Shah family arrived in Vancouver, BC where they were welcomed with warmth and acceptance. Their arrival marked a moment of deep gratitude acknowledging the pivotal role Aman Lara's assistance played in facilitating their safe journey to Canada, coupled with the invaluable resources and support provided.

“My dream was not to just come to Canada the country, but to come here for the future of my children.”

The family owes its deepest gratitude to the remarkable courage of their eldest daughter. Without her bravery and her communications with Aman Lara,  the family wouldn't have found safety and stability in Canada.

Since their arrival the family has been able to breathe a sigh of relief and the girls with smiles on their faces, confirmed their interest in returning to their studies. 

Muska’s mother expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be in Canada, where her children can envision a future free from fear. 

Taking action for a more inclusive & equitable world

The International Women's Day 2024 campaign theme is “Inspire Inclusion”. When we inspire others to understand and value the importance of women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.

Amidst these aspirations, it is important to acknowledge that the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan continues to pose significant threats to the safety, inclusion and future advancement of women and girls as highlighted by a statement from feminist Foreign Ministers at the Munich Security Conference. 

 "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."   — World-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, Gloria Steinem

International Women’s Day exists to inspire, motivate and encourage ALL OF US  to take action to create a more inclusive and equitable future.

When women aren't present, we must ask: "If not, why not?"

When women are discriminated against, we must call out poor practice.

When the treatment of women is not equitable, we must take action.

And we must do this each time, every time.

As part of these collective efforts, Aman Lara wishes to emphasize the critical importance of continuing to provide pathways to safety for vulnerable women and girls.  Serving as a vital lifeline to those at-risk in nations in crises, Aman Lara aims to be a positive change agent and remains committed to advocating for Afghans who risked their lives in support of Canadian missions, along with members of designated groups which include women and girls.