Afghan Girl Guitarists Defy Taliban’s Ban on Music
When the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2024, artistic freedom, especially for women, was one of the first casualties. Among the most vulnerable were young musicians like Yasemin (18), Zakia (16), Shukriya (14), and Uzra (7) the four Afghan girl guitarists who dared to dream amid danger. These girls trained at the Miraculous Love Kids music school in Kabul, founded by American guitarist Lanny Cordola. Music was their voice, but silence was being forced upon them.
Real-Life Example: Yasemin, once a street candy seller, first held a guitar in 2017. That moment changed her life. She stopped selling gum and started practicing music every day. Her father, initially skeptical, became her biggest supporter. Her story reflects how music became a means of survival.
Afghan Girl Guitarists Escape to Pakistan in Search of Freedom
As the Taliban crackdown worsened, girls were no longer allowed to attend school or play instruments. The Afghan girl guitarists had no choice but to flee. In April 2022, after months of planning, Cordola helped them and their families cross into Pakistan. They hoped for resettlement in the U.S., where freedom of expression could be a reality.
Real-Life Example: Zakia’s father once smashed her guitar out of fear it would be discovered. That night, she cried until sunrise. But in Pakistan, she received a new guitar and hope. Their journey from Kabul to Islamabad was not just physical; it was emotional and symbolic.
Afghan Girl Guitarists Continue Playing Despite Uncertainty in Islamabad
In their temporary home in Islamabad, the girls practice music six days a week. Yasemin leads the band, playing BB King and Pink Floyd covers. The group even recorded their own song, “Girl with a Guitar,” showcasing not just talent but resilience.
Real-Life Example: Uzra, at just 7 years old, struggles to climb onto her chair but sings with astonishing confidence. During practice, she needs help adjusting her guitar, but her focus is unshakable. Her presence proves that passion can’t be measured by age.
Pakistani Deportation Threat Looms Over Afghan Girl Guitarists
In early 2025, Pakistan announced its decision to deport all undocumented Afghan nationals by April 1. Despite undergoing medical screening and vetting for U.S. relocation, the girls are now at risk. A Trump-era executive order reinstated in 2025 paused refugee processing, leaving the girls stranded.
Real-Life Example: The girls were scheduled to fly to the U.S. on February 5. Bags were packed. Then, the announcement came relocation was canceled. Since then, they’ve lived in fear, wondering if every knock on the door means deportation.
Afghan Girl Guitarists Connect Globally Through Music
Despite political setbacks, the Afghan girl guitarists have inspired global icons. Their cover of Sia’s “Unstoppable” gained international attention, and Sia herself sent them a heartfelt video message, praising their strength.
Real-Life Example: The girls shot the music video across scenic Islamabad parks. Changing clothes behind trees, helping each other, laughing in between takes they turned obstacles into memories. Sia’s message lifted their spirits when they were close to giving up.
Afghan Girl Guitarists Seek Help Through Global Advocacy
Organizations like #AfghanEvac, UNHCR, and JAC-R continue to push for their safe relocation. However, legal obstacles in Pakistan and political reluctance in the U.S. remain unresolved.
Real-Life Example: Yasemin reads from her Dari-language songbook every morning. Her hope? To one day perform on a U.S. stage. She often says, “If we leave here, we go together. Music connects us. That’s our strength.”
Afghan Girl Guitarists Need Urgent International Protection
The girls’ safety and future depend on international action. Returning to Afghanistan means silence, fear, and loss. Relocating means freedom, education, and hope.
Real-Life Example: Zakia wants to be a professional musician. “When I play, I feel powerful,” she says. But without intervention, her guitar may soon fall silent again.
Afghan Girl Guitarists Are Symbols of Global Courage
These four young musicians have shown what courage means. Their story reflects the struggles of countless Afghan girls silenced by oppressive regimes. Supporting them means supporting freedom.
Real-Life Example: Yasemin writes, “Music saved me. If we’re sent back, they’ll take it away.” The fight for their future is ongoing but their voices, and their strings, still sing.
Afghan Girl Guitarists’ Status
| Name | Age | Status | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yasemin | 18 | Approved, flight canceled | High |
| Uzra | 7 | Awaiting resettlement | Medium-High |
Publish by: Woman One Network | w1network
At Woman One Network, we believe in the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire. The story of the Afghan girl guitarists embodies the resilience of women everywhere who resist silence and fight for their dreams. These girls aren’t just musicians they’re revolutionaries strumming against repression. Their story must be heard, protected, and amplified.
