The “Impact Story” initiative is dedicated to highlighting how our learners have applied their newfound knowledge and skills after participating in our activities. Unlike testimonials or success stories, impact stories provide a more comprehensive view by showcasing both positive and negative aspects, as well as intended and unintended outcomes resulting from our efforts. Through the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods, these stories serve as an evaluative tool to determine the effectiveness of our training, examining whether it has brought about individual, organizational, or even broader societal change. We highly value your feedback and encourage you to share your Impact Story with us. We invite you to submit your stories through:
Email: info@aptyouth.org
Participant
My name is Najibah Hakimi, a social sciences student specializing in International Relations and Politics. I am also a young Afghan woman from one of Afghanistan’s remotest regions, where education was a distant dream, even during the most democratic times. Today, under the Taliban’s rule, that dream feels even farther away.
As an undergraduate student and advocate for sustainable development and human security, I have always sought ways to contribute to my community. However, I often struggled to articulate the hopes and challenges of my people in ways that could inspire real change. That is when I joined Afghans for Progressive Thinking’s Debate and Writing Program.
Before the program, I felt as though I was standing at the edge of a cliff, burdened by unspoken words and untapped potential. I was passionate about Oxford-style debating and writing impactful policy briefs, but I lacked the tools to channel that passion into meaningful impact.
This program changed everything. It gave me the confidence to structure my ideas, combine logic with emotion, and debate with empathy and precision. I learned the art of constructing narratives that resonate and the courage to speak up even when my voice trembled.
For me, this program was a turning point. It not only helped me find my voice but also taught me to use it to inspire others. To anyone dreaming of making a difference, I urge you to join. Together, we can build a brighter future for Afghanistan, for its people, and for ourselves.
Participant
My name is Mohammad Sajad Rahimi, from Mazar-e-sharif, Balkh, Afghanistan. I have been passionate about debating and writing since my early school years. In 2025, I participated in the Debate and Writing Program organized by Afghan for progressive Thinking (APT), a journey that truly transformed my perspective.
Before joining the program, I struggled with structuring my arguments effectively and lacked confidence in presenting my thoughts in front of a large audience. I often hesitated to express my ideas, fearing criticism or inadequacy.
The program instilled in me a newfound confidence. I learned to articulate my thoughts clearly and became better at critical thinking. My participation in various debate sessions allowed me to embrace feedback and grow from it.
Although I’m still a student, the skills I acquired have helped me in academic projects, leadership roles, and other extracurricular activities. I now feel better prepared for opportunities requiring teamwork, public speaking, and effective communication.
One memorable experience was during a debate on social media’s impact on youth. As the first opposition speaker, I successfully countered arguments with strong evidence, earning praise from judges and peers. This moment solidified my belief in my potential to create change through words.
I wholeheartedly encourage others to join this program. It’s a life-changing opportunity for anyone seeking personal and professional growth. This program not only helps participants develop essential skills like critical thinking and effective communication but also fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged to thrive. I deeply appreciate the organizers for creating such an impactful platform that empowers youth to unlock their full potential.
Participant
My name is Suhaila Behmanush, graduate of the Economics faculty from Badakhshan University. Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in two remarkable programs: The Debate program and the Writing program. I attended the Debate program by APT in December 2024.
Before joining the debate, I struggled with effectively expressing my ideas, both in speech and writing. I lacked the confidence to present my arguments during discussions, and my writing often felt disorganized. I was eager to overcome these challenges and improve myself.
The Debate program significantly boosted my confidence in public speaking. It taught me how to structure my arguments logically and respond to opposing views respectfully. In the Writing program, I learned to organize my thoughts more clearly and express them coherently, which enhanced my overall communication skills.
It equipped me with critical thinking and communication skills that are invaluable in my field of economics. I now feel more prepared to share my ideas and collaborate effectively in professional settings. Participating in the Debate program helped me to build my confidence and improve my public speaking skill. For instance, after completing the program, I can clearly express my ideas in the program and online meetings, something I couldn’t do before. The program taught me how to organize my thoughts and speak clearly, which has made me more confident in other areas of my life.
I highly recommend these programs to anyone looking to improve their communication skills. They are empowering and transformative experiences that can benefit anyone, regardless of their background.
Participant
I am Zeinab Hosseini, an Afghan female student passionate about advocating for the rights of women in Afghanistan. For the past two months, I’ve been deeply engaged in the Debate program organized by APT.
Prior to joining APT’s program, I wasn’t confident in my ability to research effectively or construct persuasive arguments, which felt like a significant barrier to achieving my goals.
The program has been transformative. I’ve developed crucial skills in critical thinking, persuasive argumentation, and the development of realistic solutions – crucial components of advocacy without violence. This structured approach has significantly boosted my confidence in voicing the concerns of Afghan women suffering under restrictive policies. I now feel better equipped to share their stories with the world, advocate for their rights, and build a stronger voice for women’s issues.
I strongly believe that anyone passionate about women’s rights and human dignity should consider participating in similar empowerment programs. The Debate, Writing, and Advocacy program provided by APT has given me a powerful toolkit for impactful advocacy, empowering me to amplify the voices of those often unheard. I am now more confident in my ability to create meaningful change.
Participant
My name is Muslima Hemmat, and participating in the debate program has been a game- changer for me. Before I joined, I had a hard time expressing my thoughts clearly and often lacked the confidence to tackle complex issues. But from Dec 2024 to Jan 2025, this program gave me the tools and the platform I needed to work through those challenges and truly excel.
Beyond the debates themselves, I also gained skills I hadn’t expected to learn. Conducting surveys and writing policy briefs were completely new to me, and they opened my eyes to the power of research and clear communication in decision-making. These practical skills are something I’ll carry with me in many areas of my life.
I also got an opportunity to connect with other youth debaters who shared my passion for discussing important topics. Not only did I make lasting friendships, but I also built professional relationships that I know will benefit me in the future.
Looking back, I can see just how much the program has impacted me. It’s helped me improve my debate skills, boosted my confidence, and even opened up new opportunities I hadn’t considered before. If you’re looking to enhance your communication skills and critical thinking, this program is definitely worth it. Thank you APT.
Participant
I am Hasiba Ghafori, a 16 years old girl from Afghanistan Mazar-e-Sharif. As a young girl, I envisioned a future filled with possibilities—graduating from school, stepping into the halls of a university, and immersing myself in the world of economics. But then, as if a dark cloud had descended upon my dreams, the government changed. Each door that led to education was slammed shut, leaving me in a suffocating silence where hope struggled to breathe. I often found myself lying in bed, consumed by tears, feeling as though my future was crumbling before my eyes. This sense of hopelessness was not mine alone; it echoed through the hearts of millions of Afghan girls, each of us grappling with our shattered aspirations. In those gloomy moments, one day a friend of mine suggested to me joining programs offered by APT.
Through APT programs, I was able to gain new knowledge, shift my mindset to positive things and work actively, improve skills, and boost my critical thinking and confidence. Moreover, I got out of my comfort zone and started communicating with different people. Additionally, I can say APT’s writing program changed me to an innovative writer and I am very thrilled about it.
Every piece of knowledge I gathered from the programs became a precious gem, illuminating my path forward.
Participant
I am Halima Sediqy, a girl with big dreams. I graduated from school with excellent grades and always dreamed of being an influential person in the future. For as long as I can remember, I have always worked hard – studying, teaching, learning art and keeping myself busy.
I studied law in university and I dreamed of working in human rights organizations. However, when the Taliban came to power and the restrictions they imposed, I was completely devastated. I was no longer that enthusiastic and energetic girl. Every day I felt more hopeless and overwhelmed than the day before.
But that all changed when I first started using APT’s programs. I learned a lot through this program and realized that I should never give up. I learned that success should not depend on external factors, but on our ability to take advantage of opportunities.
I can proudly say that APT’s writing and debate program sharpened my skills in communication and critical thinking. It empowered me to find my voice again and taught me how to articulate my ideas persuasively and with confidence. Thanks to this program, I regained my enthusiasm and discovered new ways to pursue my dreams, even in the face of challenges!
Participant
My name is Nilofar, and I’ve always been passionate about making a difference in my community. I grew up questioning societal norms and challenging injustices, but I often struggled to translate my thoughts into meaningful action. That all changed when I joined APT’s writing and debate program.
Through the program, I learned how to sharpen my critical thinking and express my ideas with clarity and confidence. Writing policy briefs and participating in debates taught me how to craft compelling arguments and back them up with solid evidence. One of the most empowering experiences was collaborating with other participants to write recommendations on addressing gender inequality. It was a proud moment when we drafted these recommendations to—I realized that my voice could truly make an impact.
Today, I feel more confident than ever. The program helped me discover my potential, and now I mentor young girls, encouraging them to take advantage of opportunities like these. I’ve learned that our ideas, no matter how small they may seem, can be the spark that drives meaningful change.
Participant
My name is Sara, and I always believed that education and ideas have the power to transform lives. But as someone who grew up in a society where girls’ voices often go unheard, I struggled to find ways to express my thoughts or contribute to meaningful discussions. Joining APT’s writing and debate program was a turning point in my life.
The program taught me how to think critically and question assumptions, something I’d never fully embraced before. I developed my writing skills and learned how to craft policy briefs that addressed issues and challenges. One of the best experiences was presenting recommendations on improving access to education for girls.
Today, I am not the quiet girl who kept her ideas to herself. I am someone who believes in the strength of collaboration and the importance of amplifying voices. APT’s program gave me the confidence to dream bigger and provided me with the skills to turn those dreams into actionable solutions. Now, I encourage others to take the same leap and realize that their voice can shape a better future.
Participant
My name is Zamzam, and as a young girl in Afghanistan, I grew up witnessing the daily struggles faced by girls and women in my community. I often felt isolated in my ideas and unsure of how to share them effectively. Despite these barriers, I refused to give up, and joining APT’s writing and debate program became a turning point in my life.
The program not only empowered me with essential skills but also taught me the art of teamwork. Working together with fellow participants to prepare for debates helped me learn the importance of listening, respecting diverse perspectives, and building on each other’s strengths.
What truly transformed me was realizing that we could tackle critical issues together—from advocating for girls’ education to proposing solutions to societal challenges. Knowing that my contributions could make an impact within the group and beyond gave me a profound sense of purpose.
APT’s program didn’t just teach me debating skills; it showed me that empowerment comes from working together, supporting one another, and raising our voices for change. I carry this lesson with me as I continue to dream big and inspire others to do the same.
Participant
My name is Farzana, and like many girls in Afghanistan, I often felt that my thoughts and experiences were of no value in my homeland. The restrictions and barriers made it difficult for girls to find platforms where their voices could truly be heard. That all changed when I joined APT’s program—a life-changing experience that empowered me in ways I never imagined.
Through the program, I learned not just how to write, but how to write with purpose. Drafting policy briefs became an invaluable skill, enabling me to share my ideas and recommendations. For the first time, I had the opportunity to share my views and suggestions with a wider audience, including policymakers and community leaders. The sense of being heard was truly amazing—it made me realize that our voices, when amplified, have the power to bring about change.
Today, I continue to use my writing to inspire and advocate for change. APT’s program didn’t just teach me skills; it gave me the confidence to believe that every story and idea matters, and that our voices deserve to shape the future.
Participant
My name is Aria, and I grew up in Afghanistan where many girls face challenges in getting an education and being heard. These barriers often made me feel like my voice didn’t matter. But when I joined APT’s programs, everything changed for me.
APT’s programs gave me confidence and hope. Working with other girls in the program helped me see that, together, we can bring about change. Education and teamwork have the power to empower women and improve lives.
Today, I’m proud of what I’ve learned and excited to keep using my voice to inspire others and push for progress. APT’s programs showed me that we all have the power to make a difference.
Participant
My name is Farida, and I am from Kabul Afghanistan. The day schools closed for girls in my country, I felt like the door to our dreams had been shut. Losing access to education made me feel hopeless, as if my voice and future had been taken away. For a long time, I didn’t know how to move forward.
But everything changed when I joined APT’s programs. Through the program, I learned how to express my ideas and share my experiences. Writing policy briefs taught me how to focus on important issues and suggest solutions. Sharing my recommendations and stories with a wider audience showed me that my voice can make a difference.
I learned how to question ideas, analyze problems, and think of creative solutions. These skills made me feel stronger and more confident, not just in writing but in every part of my life.
Today, I’m proud to be an advocate for girls’ rights and education. All thanks to the APT Team!
Participant
Growing up in Afghanistan, girls like me had few opportunities to learn and share our ideas. It often felt like we couldn’t make a difference because our voices were ignored. But when I joined APT’s programs, everything changed for me.
Through the program, I learned how to work with others to find solutions to real problems. Writing about my ideas and sharing them with bigger audiences showed me that my voice matters. Activities like debates and group projects helped me feel more confident and realize the strength we have when we work together.
APT’s programs gave me the chance to share my thoughts and experiences while building important skills. I now know that even in difficult situations, we can create change. I believe every girl deserves the chance to make her voice heard.
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