In this talk, I share my journey from Afghanistan to Riverside and how my experiences as a mother, educator, and advocate shaped my mission to support girls’ education. I discuss the impact of the current crisis on Afghan girls and introduce Success Journey Academy, an online school that brings learning to those who are now banned from classrooms. This is a story of resilience, hope, and the belief that education can change lives.

I am Friba Dawar, an Afghan educator, mother of four daughters, and proud Riverside resident. I’ve worked as a teacher trainer and school principal, and now serve as the Cultural and Community Liaison at the Human Migration Institute. I also run A Taste of Afghanistan, a small catering business that helps support families in need. I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family and friends in my free time.

Topics: Community, Togetherness, Current or Recent Events, Families, Motivation/Inspiration, Social and Environmental Justice