This story feels a world away from my world - there were multiple times in this conversation I had to remind myself that the stories that Zarifa were sharing are happening now, in this time - not a time before.

Zarifa grew up in Afghanistan and when she was three the Taliban banned girls from school and her parents began her education in secret.

She went on to become the youngest female Mayor in Afghanistan and the riots, and protests and assassination attempts she endured are mind-baffling stories. Her father was killed by Taliban and this is something that still drives her today.

Zarifa shares with me the dreams you had growing up, where her drive and tenacity come from, and why she’s driven to ensure women in Afghanistan receive an education.

Zarifa’s story has recently been released as a Netflix documentary - IN HER HANDS - which I highly recommend watching - especially after hearing her story.

Take the time to absorb and listen to the stories, sheer drive, and determination that is Zarifa Ghafari.