Shogofa Sakhi Tahere, 33, came to Germany with hopes for a better future. “I was optimistic that I would live in a democratic country where women have equal rights and freedom of choice.” However, the initial period was challenging for her: “being away from a large family and having to adapt to a new culture and learn a new language was difficult.” Despite these difficulties, she remained determined to overcome obstacles and succeed in her new home. Shogofa, who is a mother of two daughters, has been living in Frankfurt since 2019.

Shogofa put considerable effort into her new journey, focusing on integrating quickly into German society. “I tried to learn the language at a high level of proficiency while also searching for opportunities that could help me grow professionally.” Shogofa has completed her advanced education (Weiterbildungen) as an accountant at the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences. Her Master’s degree in Business Administration from Kabul University, in partnership with the American University of Afghanistan, has also been recognized and given equivalency as a Master’s degree in Germany. “I worked hard to get my degrees recognized, which was worthwhile.”

Shogofa had a wide-ranging career in management roles with both private and governmental bodies in Afghanistan. “I also hoped to integrate fully into the job market in Germany.” Her most recent position was accountant in one of companies. Following the birth of her second child, Shogofa has dedicated most of her time to her family, especially her daughters while remaining open to new opportunities to learn and grow.

She values the security and rules and regulations in Germany. “I respect the equality among different nationalities, including Germans, in this country.” She has developed a network of cooperative and helpful friends and contacts in Germany.

Shogofa takes pride in the cultural aspects of her place of origin, and remarks, “I am proud to be an Afghan and to have grown up with Afghan cultural norms and values. Our country has a wide range of delicious foods, and our people are famous for their hospitality, generosity, and kindness. We have beautiful traditions, including embroidery, handmade dresses, valuable jewelry, and poetry. Afghanistan holds a special place in my heart.”

She encourages new Afghan arrivals in Germany to stay hopeful and believe in themselves, saying, “Take advantage of this golden opportunity, as Germany is among the countries that offer free education to accomplish anything you desire. Just go for it, put in the effort, and you will reach your goals for a brighter future. Keep moving forward.” Shogofa believes that having a good balance between work and personal life is crucial, especially for women. “I think that women have more responsibilities outside of their professional life, and therefore it’s essential to maintain that balance.”

Shogofa is also worried about the future of Afghanistan, which is now being governed by the Taliban. “I always think about my family and fellow Afghans who are living in a country with uncertainty and a bleak future. The Taliban have taken away women’s basic rights, and women and girls are not allowed to work or study.” She invites everyone to stand up against this brutality and be the voice of women in Afghanistan.