Roya Rahmani is a true inspiration and role model for me and so many Afghani girls, women and women around the world. Her courage, resilience, and dedication to promoting peace and empowering women serve as a shining example for all of us and her perseverance and determination has inspired my sisters and I to continue our education and get involved with Model UN so we can continue to inspire other Afghan girls and women for equality and justice.

I am an Afghani girl who came to the US one year ago after I spent two years in Afghanistan under the Taliban takeover. My sisters and I went through many challenges as girls were banned from attending school. I missed two years of school. I experienced deep depression and I had to leave my country for a better life. Having passionate, strong brave and resilient women leader like Ambassador Roya Rahmani, someday all the Afghan girls will have my opportunity for a better future.

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Good evening, everyone! I’m Sadaf Hashimi from Afghanistan. I am currently a junior at Hartford Public High School and a member of Model United Nations. I’m truly honored to be here today and to be a part of this group. As we gather for this special occasion, I’d like to wish each incredible woman in here a happy International Women’s Day. It’s a day to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of women around the world.

Today I am here to introduce you to a brave woman. An Afghan diplomat who served as Afghanistan’s first female Ambassador to the United States, Roya Rahmani.

Roya Rahmani is chair of Delphos International, where she plays a pivotal role in expanding the firm’s business networks, enhancing its global reach and amplifying its impact. She is a role model for me and all Afghan girls and women.

I admire her confidence, strength and courage.  No matter how hard, she never gives up and finds a way to succeed and that is what has inspired me to get involved with the Model UN Club.