The EmpowerHer Conference 2024, held on March 9, marked a significant stride in the ongoing effort to empower Afghan women through education and technology. Organized by a coalition of dedicated organizations, including FemTech, Women in Data Science | Upper Bavaria, Yes Techies, READ, Research and Education Association for Development (READ Tadqiq), Afghan Women Scholar, 21st Century Girls, Woman Empowerment Education Network (WEEN), Generation of Change (GoC), Woman Online University, and Par Cultural Center, the virtual event convened experts, activists, and stakeholders. The central theme, “Empowerment Through Education: Building a Resilient Future for Women". The conference featured insightful keynotes, interactive panel discussions, and fireside chats, providing a platform for experts, activists, and change-makers to address critical issues and share success stories.

Objectives 

The EmpowerHer Conference aims to be more than just a series of discussions; it seeks to be a catalyst for real change, inspiring action, and providing tangible solutions to empower Afghan women and girls to achieve their full potential. The main objective of this conference are:

1. Highlight Current Challenges: To bring to light the existing barriers that Afghan women face in obtaining education and securing employment, and the impact of these barriers on their personal development and broader societal contributions.

2. Foster Global and Local Collaboration: To unite global and local stakeholders, including NGOs, educational institutions, policymakers, and activists, to discuss and devise collaborative strategies that support the educational and professional advancement of Afghan women.

3. Showcase Innovative Solutions: To identify and promote innovative and practical educational programs, tools, and methodologies that can be adapted and implemented to overcome the current challenges in Afghanistan.

4. Enhance Digital Literacy and Access: To emphasize the importance of digital literacy and access to technology as pivotal factors in enabling Afghan women to pursue education and employment, particularly in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

5. Empower Through Knowledge Exchange: To provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices that can empower Afghan women and girls to navigate and overcome current educational and employment obstacles.

6. Build a Supportive Network: To establish a lasting network of support that continues beyond the conference, ensuring ongoing assistance, mentorship, and resources for Afghan women striving for educational and professional achievements.

7. Advocate for Policy Changes: To advocate for policy changes and increased efforts from both local and global entities to remove educational and employment restrictions and support gender equality in Afghanistan.

Event Structure and Agenda

Opening Segment

• Welcome and Introduction+Opening Remarks

• Host: Dr. Mursal Dawodi, Formal Associate Professor at Kabul Polytechnic University, Founder and President at FemTech

The EmpowerHer Conference's opening segment established a robust tone, delving into the challenges Afghan women encounter in education and employment. Dr. Dawodi, highlighted the conference's vital goal: empowering Afghan women and girls, particularly on International Women's Day. She underscored the collaborative effort of the conference in addressing the pressing issue of "Empowering through Education" The event aimed to discuss the current status of women's education and employment in Afghanistan, find practical solutions for their empowerment through education, and enhance their position in society, particularly in STEM fields. In conclusion, she expressed gratitude for the warm participation of attendees and encouraged them to turn the conference into a positive step towards progress and empowerment for Afghan women and girls.

Keynotes

Keynote 1

• “Challenges and Aspirations: Afghan Women in the Landscape of Higher Education."

• Speaker: Dr. Sweeta Akbari, Researcher at Temple University in Finland, Co-Founder and CEO at Afghan Woman Scholar (AWS)

  Keynote 2

• “Exploring Displacement and Gender Disparities: A Focus on Women Scientists in Developing Countries, with Special Reference to Afghanistan."

• Speaker: Fatana Lameh, Former Assistant Professor at Kabul University, Researcher, USA

• Keynote 3

• “The Influence of National and International Support on Women's Education and Awareness: Empowering Communities and Addressing Critical Women's Issues”

• Speaker: Dr. Zainab Abulfazl, Dean of Faculty and Leadership Board Member at Woman Online

Panel Discussion

• Panel 1 - “The Role of Technology in Women's Education”

The first panel of the EmpowerHer Conference delved into the transformative influence of technology on women's education, featuring a dynamic discussion among esteemed experts.

• Moderator: Mahdia Ahmadi, Executive Board Member at FemTech

• Panelists: 

Ms. Mozhdah Babakerkhil, Executive Board Member at FemTech and Academy Outreach Officer at Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan;

Ms. Wagma Zamani, Deputy Director at Women Empowerment Education Network;

Ms. Neptune Mohammadi, Developmental Officer at Generation of Change and AUAF Alumni;

Ms. Haseena Naseri, Lead Teacher Assistant of 21st Century Girls

Key Points:

Mozhdah Babakerkhil:

• Described FemTech's services for women's education.

• Explored the use of mobile technology, online platforms, and social media in supporting women's learning.

• Identified key technological advancements positively impacting women's education.

Haseena Naseri:

• Discussed the activities of 21st Century Girls.

• Shared insights into the conditions under which girls can apply for educational programs.

Neptune Mohammadi:

• Shared insights into Generation of Change's activities, services, and conditions for applying to their programs.

• Discussed security and privacy concerns in women’s online learning.

Khadija (Replacement for Wagma Zamani):

• Discussed Women Empowerment Education Network's initiatives.

• Explored the use of technology in education, mentorship and role models, and the integration of technology in ensuring the safety and privacy of women in online educational environments.

• Panel 2 - “Global Solidarity & Local Actions for Afghan Women's Education”

Insights and experiences on breaking down the systemic and societal barriers facing women in education

• Moderator: Mahdia Ahmadi, Executive Board Member at FemTech

• Panelists: 

Ms. Nahid Najimyar, Associate Professor at Kabul University and Program Director at READ Tadqiq;

Ms. Adeleh Zamani, Deputy of Student Affairs and Leadership Board Member at Woman Online University;

Ms. Lida Ahmadi, Administrative Member at Par Cultural Center;

Ms. Fatima Bayat, Sociologist, Administrative Member at Modern Development Learning Center

Key Points:

Ms. Nahid Najimyar

• Ms. Najimyar shed light on the foundational goals of READ and its activities in advocating for women's educational rights.

• Addressed the initial challenges faced by those working to promote and provide education for women and girls at the local level in Afghanistan.

Ms. Adeleh Zamani

• Shared insights into the programs and impact of Woman Online University, highlighting the significant influence of online education on creating academic opportunities.

• Discussed the psychological repercussions of career and educational limitations on Afghan women and provided an evaluation of their future from a psychological perspective.

Ms. Fatima Bayat

• Explored the developmental initiatives undertaken by Modern Development Learning Center for empowering Afghan women and children.

• Addressed how Afghan diaspora can support education of women and girls living in Afghanistan.

Ms. Lida Ahmadi

• Shared successful initiatives by Par Cultural Center that positively impacted children’s and women's education in Afghanistan.

• Discussed her educational and professional journey, emphasizing the motivations behind engaging in literary and cultural activities as an advocate for women's educational rights.

The second panel of the EmpowerHer Conference delved into the crucial topic of global solidarity and local actions in the context of Afghan women's education. The panel featured insightful discussions and perspectives from distinguished panelists. The panel covered a spectrum of topics, from challenges and successes to future plans, providing a comprehensive understanding of the efforts undertaken by organizations and individuals to advance women's education in Afghanistan.

Fireside Chat

• Fireside Chat 1- “Journeys of Resilience: Overcoming Barriers in Education”

• Personal stories and solutions from those who have navigated and overcome educational challenges

• Host: Muzhda Ahmadi, Executive Board Member at FemTech

• Guest: Abeda Danish, Former student at Kabul University, B.Sc. student at Catholic University of Ingolstadt, Germany

Abeda Danish, engaged in an intimate conversation during the Fireside Chat. The focus was on her personal journey, emphasizing the challenges, triumphs, and the role of education in her life. Abeda shared insights into her fight for education, discussing obstacles she encountered. The Fireside Chat delved into Abeda's passion for Data Science and her pursuit of a career in this field

Key Points:

• Academic Transitions: Abeda traced her educational journey from studying Information Systems at Kabul University to pursuing higher education at the Asian University for Women. Her story highlighted the critical role education played in her personal growth.

• Resilience and Determination: Abeda's narrative showcased her exceptional resilience and determination in overcoming challenges, particularly the educational barriers faced in Afghanistan. Her commitment to education shone through her academic pursuits.

• Support Networks: Abeda acknowledged the support she received, notably from the Imagine Foundation e.V. This underscored the importance of support networks in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and pursue their educational goals.

• Fireside Chat 2- “From Adversity to Triumph”

• Discussion on innovative educational strategies and programs making a real difference

• Host: Muzhda Ahmadi, Executive Board Member at FemTech

• Guests: 

Shahira Sadat, Remote Express Backend Developer at Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance;

Fahima Mohammadi, M.Sc., Software Engineer, Australia

Shahira Sadat, a trailblazing software engineer from Afghanistan, shared her remarkable journey of resilience, innovation, and success. Her experiences navigating the complex landscape of Afghanistan and making pioneering strides in STEM highlighted the power of determination and education. Shahira's story is not just about tech; it's a powerful narrative of female empowerment, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of women.

Shahira eloquently discussed the multifaceted challenges encountered in Afghanistan, particularly within the realms of education and career development. Navigating societal expectations and overcoming gender-based limitations emerged as formidable barriers in her pursuit of educational and professional excellence. Responding to inquiries regarding the role of Information Technology (IT) in her professional journey, Shahira underscored its transformative impact. Technology played a pivotal role in connecting her with diverse job opportunities and expanding her professional horizons. The dynamic nature of the tech industry provided a platform for continuous growth and career advancement. Shahira provided valuable insights into the complex relationship between success and the surrounding environment. Acknowledging the importance of opportunities, she emphasized the need for adaptability and resourcefulness. In situations where opportunities were scarce, Shahira encouraged cultivating financial independence and fostering new possibilities through strategic planning and innovation.

Fahima Mohammadi's speech resonated deeply with the audience, addressing diverse challenges faced by Afghan women. She reflected on the specific hurdles faced by women in pursuing their goals, shedding light on the socio-cultural landscape that often posed obstacles to academic and professional aspirations. Participants gained valuable insights into Fahima's achievements and her journey within the STEM fields. She elaborated on the factors that propelled her towards STEM disciplines, offering a nuanced perspective on the intersection of passion, opportunity, and the pursuit of knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Despite societal constraints and personal hardships, Fahima pursued her master's degree, becoming the only girl in her class at Kabul University. Fahima addressed the broader significance of her professional endeavors as a woman in STEM. She shared a compelling narrative that transcended individual accomplishments, emphasizing the universality of her experiences and the potential for her journey to inspire and guide other women. Her powerful message underscored the attainability of success for women in diverse fields and carried a motivational tone for aspiring individuals. Fahima's talk not only provided a personal account of her challenges and triumphs but also served as a beacon of inspiration for women navigating similar paths in Afghanistan. Her motivational speech encouraged girls to create strategic plans for success, emphasizing perseverance and dedication.

Key Points:

• Resilience and Determination: Both speakers exemplified resilience and determination in overcoming challenges, and becoming trailblazers in their respective fields.

• Empowerment through Education: The discussions underscored the pivotal role of education in empowering women and breaking barriers.

• Strategic Planning for Success: Fahima's emphasis on creating and following well-thought-out plans became a rallying call for the audience, promoting a sense of empowerment.

The Fireside Chat sessions were instrumental in achieving the conference's goal of fostering dialogue, sharing insights, and inspiring meaningful actions to advance women's education and empowerment in Afghanistan. The stories shared by Abdeda Danish, Shahira Sadat, and Fahima Mohammadi added a powerful dimension to the conference, contributing to the collective commitment to a more equitable and empowered future for Afghan women. The discussions inspired attendees to navigate challenges with determination and strive for excellence in their educational and professional journeys.

Closing Segment

• Concluding Remarks

Summary of key insights, final thanks, and a call to continued action and engagement.

Speaker: Ms. Nadira Ahmadi, M.Sc., Board Member at FemTech

Nadira Ahmadi, gracefully brought the EmpowerHer Conference to a close with heartfelt words of gratitude and reflection. In her closing address, Nadira expressed hope that the day's program had effectively addressed the current educational challenges faced by Afghan women, providing practical solutions and garnering the interest of the participants. She took a moment to extend her appreciation to every contributor. Nadira summarized the overarching theme of the day, which focused on unveiling and addressing the educational challenges of Afghan women. The conference successfully initiated discussions on overcoming gender biases, motivating and creating awareness among women, and fostering collaboration among different organizations for swift educational initiatives.

She emphasized three key factors in addressing these challenges:

A. Empowering through Technology: Utilizing technology for awareness and education.

B. Overcoming Educational Barriers: Instilling motivation and hope, building an aware community through the education of future generations.

C. Collaborative Efforts: Uniting various entities for educational actions, ensuring prompt access to necessary initiatives for women.

Nadira concluded by expressing her hope that the conference had inspired and provided practical insights to the audience. She invited attendees to stay connected through FemTech's official channels, welcoming any questions, suggestions, or collaboration ideas.

The EmpowerHer Conference not only closed on a note of gratitude but also looked forward to future activities and collaborations, aiming to continue the journey of empowering women through education and technology.

• Post-Conference Interactive Session

After the main event, the participants joined for an informal Q&A and networking session. They engaged with speakers and panelists to discuss lingering questions and explore topics in more depth. It was a perfect opportunity for extended learning and personal connections.

Participants’ Feedback

Participants of the EmpowerHer Conference were deeply motivated and inspired by the speeches, fireside chats, and panel discussions. The thought-provoking insights shared during the event ignited a sense of enthusiasm and drive among attendees. The speeches resonated with the audience, offering valuable perspectives on women's empowerment and the importance of education and employment for Afghan women.

The fireside chats provided intimate and impactful conversations, allowing attendees to connect with notable figures on a personal level. These discussions highlighted the resilience and success stories of women who have overcome adversity, serving as a source of inspiration for all participants.

Moreover, the panel discussions were highly informative and enriching, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in women's education and employment. Participants expressed that they learned invaluable lessons from the diverse perspectives shared by the panelists. The discussions stimulated critical thinking and provided practical insights that attendees could apply in their respective fields and initiatives.

Overall, the combination of speeches, fireside chats, and panel discussions contributed to a comprehensive and engaging conference experience. Participants left the event feeling empowered, motivated, and equipped with new knowledge and perspectives to drive positive change for Afghan women. Participants evaluated the conference as excellent. The evaluation form, shared via Google Form, received enthusiastic responses. Attendees expressed excitement and interest, with many expressing willingness to join future sessions and initiatives, reflecting the conference's success in fostering meaningful dialogue and inspiring action.