Nilab, 18, is one of the many girls impacted by the school closures in Afghanistan. Once dreaming of becoming a lawyer to defend the rights of Afghan women, her aspirations were cut short when girls were barred from attending school.
But then, a message changed everything.
Her former scouting teacher informed her about a community education program supported by Zakat Foundation of America. Through this initiative, Nilab had a chance to resume her education right from her community. “I was happy and hopeful. I could finally learn again,” she recalled.
Nilab enrolled in the program immediately. There, she studied English, math, and vocational skills. She also received psychosocial support, learning how to manage stress, regulate emotions, and build resilience. “This program didn’t just teach me subjects, it taught me how to believe in myself again,” she said.
Nilab’s journey is just one of thousands supported by the Zakat Foundation of America’s education programs in Afghanistan. These initiatives focus on empowering Afghan girls and youth through homeschooling, vocational training, leadership development, and emotional wellness.
Key programs implemented by our partner include:
Afghan Scouts Youth Leadership Program
Sisters 4 Sisters and Brothers 4 Brothers Mentorship
Trade Afghan Economic Program (for women-led small businesses)
Transition to Community Program (for youth reintegration)
These projects are currently active in over 18 provinces, including Kabul, Herat, Kandahar, Bamyan, and Nangarhar, ensuring support reaches underserved and rural communities.
In 2024, the Zakat Foundation of America and its partners delivered critical education and humanitarian support to thousands of families across Afghanistan:
311 food packages distributed (171 to teachers, 140 to orphans)
2,820 students in 190 homeschools received school supplies
700 homeschool students received food assistance
5,525 homeschool students supported in total
9,356 total beneficiaries reached through education and aid initiatives
These efforts go beyond meeting urgent needs; they invest in sustainable, long-term change. From providing homeschool supplies and food support to mentoring youth and training women, the Zakat Foundation of America is creating safe spaces for learning in a country where access to education has become a privilege.
Community education programs are a lifeline in Afghanistan. They help restore not only knowledge, but dignity, purpose, and hope. For girls like Nilab, they offer the chance to dream again, to learn again, and to become the changemakers their country desperately needs.
Education is not just a right; it’s a powerful force for transformation. You can help.
