Nadia Nadim was born in to a prosperous and well connected family in Afghanistan. She is one of five sisters who, with their Mother, had to leave their war torn country in fear of severe repression and even violence against them. Her story is one of an incredible and dangerous journey across continents to start a new life without fear of war and danger. It’s a story of starting again with nothing and with determination, courage, resilience, and talent, building a new life. Nadia’s story is a story of hope, arriving in a country where she did not understand the language to becoming a world famous football star, a doctor (and surgeon), a linguist, a broadcaster and a role model. In July 2019, Nadia was named UNESCO Champion for Girls and Women’s Education.
