When Amina arrived in Thailand, she carried with her a deep determination to continue learning despite years of disrupted education in her home country.

“In Afghanistan, girls could not go to school. For almost a whole year, I stayed at home and could not even go outside,” she recalled. “But I always told myself: you have to study, you have to educate yourself for a better future.”

After arriving in Thailand, Amina searched for opportunities to continue her education. When she heard about the Urban Education Project (UEP), she applied immediately and soon began attending English, computer, and digital skills classes.

At first, the experience was daunting. Amina was the only Afghan woman in her class, surrounded by students from many different nationalities. She struggled with confidence, communication, and understanding different accents.

“I was very shy. I kept asking myself, ‘Can I talk with them? Can I study here?’ Even understanding my teacher’s accent was difficult at the beginning,” she said.

Yet she persevered. Step by step, the classroom became more than a place of study; it became a space where she rebuilt confidence and discovered her voice. She formed friendships across cultures and strengthened her skills in computer use and digital marketing.

“Besides learning, it helped me communicate. It helped me talk. It helped me make friends,” she explained.

As her confidence grew, so did her role within the community. With improved English and communication skills, Amina began working as an interpreter, helping other refugees navigate services and interviews.

“One day, I interpreted for an Afghan woman who could not express herself in English. Afterward, she told me she was proud of me for helping her share her ideas. At that moment, I felt proud of myself too.”

Within her community, Amina has become someone others turn to for guidance. Neighbours now ask her for help enrolling their children in school or understanding available services. Her journey reflects how one woman’s determination can create opportunities and encouragement for many others.

As an asylum seeker in Thailand, where access to formal education remains extremely limited, Amina believes strongly in the power of learning to transform lives and futures.

“Education is not a short journey. It’s a long one, but it opens many doors,” she said.

Today, Amina continues improving her English and skills while supporting others especially young refugee women who have lost years of education due to conflict and displacement

“Even if I cannot help a lot yet, I will try. Refugee girls have so much potential. They just need a chance.”

The Urban Education Project (UEP) 2025 is made possible through the generous support of CHARIS, Gipum Nanum, FASFI, and private donors through JRS USA.