By Miranda Cleland | Project Leader
In light of the recent Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, we decided to feature some of our student athletes! These AAE students are not only dedicated to overcoming obstacles to finish their education, but they're passionate about staying healthy and competing in sports.
Sports have a tumultuous history in Afghanistan. During years of war, enjoying sports for fun and competition was nearly impossible for many reasons. Even today, female athletes continue to meet resistance. In many parts of Afghanistan, conservative expectations of women dictate they stay inside to cook and clean. Sports and education don't necessarily fit that narrative.
Yet AAE students never back down from a challenge. Take Kabul students Trina and Salma. Trina, 15, is a 7th grade soccer player who plays recreationally and competitively, practicing almost six hours a week with her teammates. On the other hand, Salma, 16, has fallen in love with taekwondo and has been training for two years. Around her 9th grade course load, she is able to work out three days a week. Like Trina, competing and staying healthy are important to Salma.
One day, we may see AAE students competing in the Olympics representing their country and people. Until then, we're focusing on giving them the best education possible, which we can't do without your support. For $30 a month, you can sponsor an AAE student like Trina and Salma to make sure she finishes her education and goes on to change the world.
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