Transform Afghan Boys into Feminist Allies

This past year, Sahar’s Men as Partners in Change (MPC) program concluded its third and final round of workshops, wrapping up a year-long initiative designed to reshape attitudes and redefine gender roles among young Afghan men. Engaging 120 participants, aged 15 to 25, the program aimed to foster a more supportive environment for Afghan women and girls by challenging traditional norms and encouraging new perspectives on gender equality.

Initially planned to enroll 40 participants per round, the MPC program rapidly expanded due to overwhelming community interest, ultimately serving 120 young men. Throughout the program, participants engaged in guided discussions on key topics like gender equality, domestic violence prevention, and the implications of early marriage. These sessions invited the young men to reflect on shared household responsibilities and question ingrained stereotypes that often restrict opportunities for women.

Through these transformative conversations, participants began to understand that true honor lies not in control or dominance, but in respect and empathy. One young man shared his journey, reflecting, “I used to believe that decisions at home were only for men, but now I understand that everyone should have a voice and a choice.” This shift in mindset represents the powerful change taking root in the hearts and minds of these young men.

While empowering women remains vital, this program showed us that engaging men is equally critical. Without addressing deeply-rooted norms held by men, progress towards gender equality remains incomplete. By focusing on education and awareness, the MPC program encouraged these young men to unlearn harmful stereotypes and take active roles in supporting the women in their lives.

Thanks to the generous support of our donors, Sahar was able to expand this transformative program’s reach. Although the recent round of the program has concluded, the impact continues to ripple outward, influencing families and communities and laying the groundwork for a more equitable society. With such strong responses from participants and their communities, we are now preparing for the next phase to reach even more young men and deepen this vital work.

Thank you for standing with us. Your support empowers not just these young men, but also the women whose lives are being transformed by their newfound allies.

Links:

• Read more on our website.

In May, the second round of Men as Partners in Change graduated 40 more young men and the third round began with 40 new students. 

In this innovative program, young men are learning English and allyship, integral to their support of women in their communities.

Students from the program have already shared great results. 

Eman, a round 2 graduate shared,  “MPC taught me that all human beings are equal, there is no difference among them. Everyone has equal rights regardless of their tribe, gender, religion, ethnicity and the like.”

Abdul, another round 2 graduate, said, “The MPC program was a lifetime experience for me. Before joining the program, I was someone else; in the family, school, and community. But now, I see the world from a different angle and feel responsible toward my family, friends, and community.”

Mohammad, another round 2 graduate remarked, “I was always yelling at my mother and sisters on every small thing. But now, I learned how to control my anger, feelings, and emotions. And I am really thankful for this!”

You can support the next phase of this program and help another 120 Afghan boys become allies for women in the community with as little as $35 a month.

Links:

• Sahar Website Project Page