Afghanistan Raqiba
When I see that the voice of a marginalised person is being heard, all the hardships become bearable.
From student to storyteller
Raqiba’s path to journalism was rooted in a desire to serve her community.
“During the time of the Republic, I was in my second year of university when I decided I wanted to be among people in the community and find a way to help them,” she says. “The only path that came to my mind was journalism.”
That calling led her to Radio Harim-e-Zan, a women-focused media outlet, where she immersed herself in the world of reporting, producing, and presenting. “I worked as a presenter of political and social programs, a reporter, and a journalist,” she explains.
While studying and working, she began working with the Department of Women’s Affairs and the Committed Women’s Association: “This helped me gain a respected place in society and gave me a platform to be a voice for women and to organise awareness-raising programmes for them.”
Learning on the job
As a journalist, Raqiba is responsible for preparing, producing, and broadcasting social reports related to women and human rights.
“I also serve as the gender focal point for journalists in Badakhshan, identifying the challenges and capacities of women journalists and working to support and strengthen their presence in media,” she explains.
Raqiba holds a degree from the Faculty of Social Sciences at Badakhshan University, but her true education has come from the field, listening to people’s stories and navigating challenges: “A typical day in the field for me means pursuing the truth among the people, hearing their voices in silence, and documenting the realities of women’s lives.
Though some sources are unwilling to provide information or share their problems, her persistence and compassion have led to tangible change. One moment in particular stays with her.
“I prepared a report about a teenage girl in a remote district who, despite restrictions, had started teaching other girls at home. After the report was published, several organisations stepped in to support her. Seeing the real-life impact of my work gave me a deeper motivation to continue.”
A voice for the voiceless
When asked why she chose to work in the humanitarian sector, Raqiba’s answer is simple: “To help people in need and be a voice for those living in silence. A sense of human responsibility led me to this path.”
That sense of responsibility doesn’t switch off after hours. “In my free time, I mostly take care of household tasks and spend time with my family,” she says. “I usually continue writing reports and preparing media content at home. If I get a chance, I enjoy reading or listening to radio programs.”
It is this passion and dedication that drives Raqiba forward. “My deep love for my work and my belief in its impact on people’s lives keeps me going. When I see that the voice of a marginalised person is being heard, all the hardships become bearable.”
Her advice to others thinking of joining the humanitarian field is clear: “If you’re interested in humanitarian work, do it wholeheartedly, be patient, and always be ready to offer genuine help to people. This job requires conscience, not just skills.”
Read more stories from the field here.
