In this insightful episode, Maryam Zahid shares her powerful journey from being a refugee in Afghanistan to becoming a community leader and advocate for women's rights in Australia. She reflects on her childhood experiences during the war, the challenges of resettling in a new country, and her mission to empower Afghan women. Through her work, she addresses issues of trauma, gender inequality, and the importance of building supportive networks for new arrivals. Maryam emphasizes the resilience of refugees and the need to challenge misconceptions about their experiences.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Intro & Maryam's Journey: From Afghanistan to Australia

(04:15) - Childhood Memories: The Impact of War

(08:42) - Understanding Gender Inequality in Afghanistan

(12:37) - The Decision to Leave: A Family's Escape

(17:20) - Arriving in Australia: Challenges and Opportunities

(21:55) - Healing Through Helping: The Power of Community

(26:40) - Empowering Afghan Women: A Mission of Advocacy

(31:10) - Overcoming Barriers: Building Confidence in Women

(35:30) - Facing Resistance: The Struggle for Gender Equality

(40:05) - Visibility and Leadership: The Price of Being Outspoken

(45:18) - Advice for New Arrivals: Building a Support Network

(49:45) - Debunking Misconceptions: The Reality of Refugees

(54:10) - Embracing Australian Identity: A Personal Reflection

Maryam’s book recommendation:

Happy Refugee, by Anh Do

To contact / follow Maryam:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-zahid-858893143/

https://www.instagram.com/maryam_popal_zahid_/

https://afghanwomenonthemove.org.au/

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I was your host Emma Bellamy, and I can’t wait to bring you on another journey From There to Here!

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This podcast brought to you in partnership with Kintsugi Heroes. To find out more, head to kintsugiheroes.com.au.