Growing up in a male-dominated society, Khalida faced immense challenges. She recalls missing her first-grade education due to civil unrest in Afghanistan. Nevertheless, her early love for street football became a safe haven, providing joy amid chaos. Playing with her brothers, Khalida discovered football as a source of freedom and happiness despite the societal pressures intensifying around her.
Driven by her passion, Khalida took the initiative to form a women's football team. She began covertly organizing early morning sessions, encouraging young girls to join. From these humble beginnings arose an unofficial league, providing an escape for girls from societal expectations linked to marriage and domestic duties. Khalida's efforts fostered a sense of community and empowerment among young girls in Afghanistan.
Khalida's journey took a dangerous turn when her team faced violent backlash from local men. The incidents forced her to flee Afghanistan, but this only fueled her commitment to advocate for women's rights in sports. In Denmark, she continues to support female athletes and raise awareness about the crucial need for female representation in football, emphasizing that everyone deserves the right to play.
In the latest episode of Al Jazeera's "Now You Know," host Samantha Johnson dives into the compelling story of Khalida Popal, a beacon of resilience and empowerment. Khalida's journey in football began at a young age in war-torn Afghanistan, where societal norms dictated her every move. Despite significant adversity and threats to her life from the Taliban, her love for the game and her mission to inspire other girls propelled her to co-found Afghanistan's women's national football team. After being forced into exile due to death threats, Khalida continued to advocate for women's rights and sports participation. Currently residing in Denmark, she remains dedicated to supporting female athletes in Afghanistan and highlights the importance of community in overcoming challenges. Khalida’s powerful narrative encapsulates the struggle of women in sports, who fight not only for victory on the field but also for their right to play. The conversation sheds light on the need for continual support for women’s sports, especially in regions where participation is often met with resistance. Instances of courage, such as Khalida’s, inspire a new generation of female athletes to pursue their dreams, irrespective of societal restrictions. Her unwavering commitment to football and women's empowerment showcases the transformative power of sports in building strong, resilient communities.Jesus/Yeshua said, I am the way and the truth and the life no one comes to the Father except through me...Seek him will he may be found...Call upon him in the day of trouble...He is always there for you...❤
What she said about how she got the national team made is amazing. Understanding and working with reality to CREATE a new path. That is skill and bravery that is not often highlighted and needs to be highlighted more often.
We strongly condemn the *attack on the Bangladesh High Commissioner* in Agartala, India. Such *acts of violence* are unacceptable and undermine the spirit of diplomatic relations and mutual respect between our nations. We call for *an immediate investigation and appropriate action* to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic personnel. Peace and cooperation should remain the foundation of our bilateral ties.
Why are you propagating this? This is what the Western MSM says. Wasnt al Jazeera made to counter that? So why the propaganda? Make a film about the 7 Billion Biden stole from the Afghan Central Bank to give to 9/11 families (which Afghanis had nothing to do with). Make a film about the Taliban trying to build infrastructure or about their plans for energy, etc. You care about womens rights? Where were womens rights during the decades of pain and suffering at the hands of the Kafirs?
Weaponising women should not be allowed......NATO led US christians invaded women in Afghanistan as they were highest targets in whole invasions
We strongly condemn the *attack on the Bangladesh High Commissioner* in Agartala, India. Such *acts of violence* are unacceptable and undermine the spirit of diplomatic relations and mutual respect between our nations. We call for *an immediate investigation and appropriate action* to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic personnel. Peace and cooperation should remain the foundation of our bilateral ties.
It seems Al Jazeera has a feminism problem too. It will be hard to believe any news from Al Jazeera about women from now on.
