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LATEST NEWS
An Anniversary, a Homecoming, and a Future: A Letter from Ascend's Founder and Executive Director
When the Taliban took control of Afghanistan five years ago, it was a defining and devastating moment for Ascend. Today, it’s time to reflect on our journey since then and, above all, to look ahead to the future and chart a course forward. For the women and girls who’ve been with us from the beginning—and for the women and girls we still hope to reach—it’s time for Ascend to come home. “If one man can destroy everything, why can’t one girl change it?” Malala Yousafzai, Pakist
Jul 87 min read
Showcasing Women Entrepreneurs in Afghanistan
Video of Ascend entrepreneurs' success stories
Mar 181 min read
Entrepreneurship Program Expands Opportunity in Afghanistan
Women's entrepreneurship program in Afghanistan gives new opportunities to women.
Mar 181 min read
25 Inspiring Quotes from—and for—Women Climbers and Mountaineers
Discover powerful inspirational quotes from women rock climbers and mountaineers that motivate and empower. Elevate your spirit and embrace the climb!
Feb 176 min read
The Irish Times: ‘When the Taliban came, I lost everything. I found Ireland like paradise’
A powerful new profile in The Irish Times highlights the resilience of Afghan refugees who rebuilt their lives in Ireland after the Taliban’s return to power — including an Ascend alumna evacuated in 2021 whose journey from danger to safety reflects the broader experience of many displaced Afghan women.
Jan 211 min read
Dr. Anita Afzali Joins Ascend’s Board of Directors
Dr. Afzali will support Ascend’s mission to empower women and girls in Afghanistan and Pakistan through strategic leadership, fundraising, and program development.
Dec 15, 20253 min read
Ascend Taps Former Ambassadors, CNN Journalist For Advisory Roles: Ronald E. Neumann, Beth Jones, and Tammy Thorp join a roster of experts working for gender equity across the world.
Ascend has named former U.S. Ambassadors Ronald E. Neumann and Beth Jones, as well as award-winning journalist Tammy Kupperman Thorp to its advisory board.
Nov 19, 20255 min read
Finding My Way: Nazia’s Journey from Hopelessness to Independence
By: Nazia, Ascend Entrepreneurship Program Graduate For most of my life, I believed that a girl without an education had no future. I grew up in a family where my father did not support girls’ education, and I was only allowed to study until grade 7. Watching my friends continue their studies while I stayed home made me feel small, hopeless, and left behind. I wanted to do something with my life, but I didn’t believe I could. Then one day, a friend told me about Ascend. At fi
Nov 5, 20252 min read
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