Afghan refugee builds new life at university

Fawzia Ehsani wants to use her skills and experience to help post-conflict countries

An Afghan refugee who came to the UK after the Taliban seized power has said she wants to help rebuild the country she left.

Fawzia Ehsani is now studying for a PhD at the University of York after being evacuated by the British government and awarded a scholarship.

In Afghanistan, she worked for the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation but was forced to leave her mother behind when she realised she would have few career opportunities under the new regime.

She now hopes the skills gained from her postgraduate studies will enable her to help women still living in her homeland.

Fawzia Ehsani fled Afghanistan to pursue her education and career

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, prompting many citizens to flee the country.

Ms Ehsani was able to enjoy an education and career in the period before the Taliban regained power.

In 2020, she was one of 1,650 applicants to be successfully awarded a Chevening Scholarship, which funds overseas students to undertake a Master's course at any UK university.

She was set to take up her place before security challenges meant it was deferred for a year.

“It was really shocking because we didn’t expect these things to happen to my country and my home,” she said.

“Everything broke inside me and I realised everything was finished in that country.”

She was offered emergency evacuation, but was only granted a single visa.

“My mother wanted me to go and pursue my degree, and she said one day we may be together again.

"It was really difficult for her but she was trying her best to educate me," she said.

Her mother had supported her education after her father died because she wanted her to become independent.

"Finally, I can say that my dream came true, and my mum's dream came true," Ms Ehsani added.

Her mother wanted to ensure her daughter was able to complete her education

When Ms Ehsani arrived in the UK she had not eaten for 24 hours.

“It was so hard to be in a new place, knowing you will never go back to your home and your country.

"It was really hard and I left my friends, my family and my home."

She settled in York and found temporary work while she was studying.

After completing her Master's degree, she embarked on a PhD course at York.

Fawzia Ehsani at the inauguration for free driving lessons for female staff in Afghanistan before the Taliban took control

Her aim is now to use her experience to help countries recover from conflict.

She also advised that refugees in her position should actively seek out support systems available in the UK.

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