KABUL, Afghanistan — At just 17 years old, Nila Ibrahimi has earned the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize, marking her as one of the boldest advocates for women’s rights and education amid oppressive conditions. Recognized for her fearless efforts to champion the rights of Afghan girls, Ibrahimi received the honor during a ceremony held recently in Amsterdam, where she stood alongside other notable figures celebrated for their advocacy work, including climate activist Greta Thunberg and education campaigner Malala Yousafzai.
Ibrahimi's achievement is significant, especially considering the harsh reality faced by women and girls under the Taliban regime. Following the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, educational opportunities for girls have been severely restricted; those above grade six have been barred from attending school. This void fueled Ibrahimi to take action, leading her to start her own campaign, "I Am My Own Voice," through which she quickly garnered attention and became one of the most vocal advocates for girls' education and rights.
Reflecting her internal drive and passion, Ibrahimi conveyed her thoughts during the awards ceremony, stating, "It was the first time I told myself, ‘Wow, if I want to, if I think this is the way I want to live, I can speak up, and it can be accepted.’" This sentiment embodies her commitment to creating change for other girls caught up in similar circumstances.
The young advocate’s activism gained momentum prior to the Taliban’s resurgence when she bravely challenged prohibitive rules. Six months before the Taliban takeover, the Kabul Education Directorate imposed regulations banning girls over the age of 12 from singing publicly. Ibrahimi refused to let this dictate her actions; she recorded herself singing as part of the #IAmMySong movement, with the video quickly going viral. With the public's support, the ban was lifted within weeks, marking the first of many triumphs for Ibrahimi.
Having fled Afghanistan with her family, Ibrahimi initially relocated to Pakistan before settling in Canada, where she continues her fight for female empowerment. Through her project, "Her Story Is Woman," she encourages Afghan girls, both at home and abroad, to share their stories, ensuring their voices are amplified. Ibrahimi believes sharing experiences helps illuminate the plight of girls who remain under oppression.
Ibrahimi’s determined stance against injustice resonates far beyond Afghanistan. She acknowledges the interconnected nature of women’s rights globally, declaring, "If women’s rights are suffering in one part of the world, the whole world will suffer." Such convictions reflect the foundation upon which her advocacy thrives, as she speaks fervently about the need for international awareness surrounding the struggles of Afghan girls.
Despite the challenges she has faced, including the emotional toll of leaving her homeland, Ibrahimi remains hopeful. "Every single day I think of those girls who are left behind in Afghanistan, left with no hope. Despite whatever problems I face, I strive to make my voice heard for them,” she expressed during her speech at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy.
Recognizing the honorees of the award, Marc Dullaert, the founder and chair of KidsRights, remarked on the courage displayed by Ibrahimi not only to advocate for her peers but to keep her mission alive after relocating to Canada. Dullaert praised her as someone who could easily have prioritized her safety and personal success, yet opted instead to forge on as a voice for the voiceless.
During the award ceremony, Ibrahimi led nearly 500 attendees, along with girls connecting from diverse locations around the globe, in singing her protest anthem. This moment symbolizes unity and resilience, illustrating the strength of collective voices committed to advocacy.
Looking ahead, Ibrahimi is preparing for the next chapter of her life as she pursues her education, aiming to study law. Her ambition is grounded deeply within her desire to advocate for justice and continue her work empowering girls and women.
Nila Ibrahimi stands as not just a local hero but also as symbol of hope for countless women and girls worldwide facing similar battles for their rights. Her story shines light on the importance of education, activism, and the spirit to fight for equality, inspiring others to join the movement.
