About Us
We are a UK-based, Afghan-led charity striving to create positive and progressive change in Afghanistan. We do this by providing talented, underprivileged women with dual a university scholarship and mentoring programme, and access to global professional networks.
Ultimately, our scholar’s contributions to civic life will lead to a more balanced and equal society in Afghanistan.
Afghan women’s rights activist Rahela Sidiqi founded Rahela Trust in 2015 to improve the situation for women in Afghanistan due to the continued, systematic discrimination of women at both the familial and societal levels.
Origin
Originally, Rahela Trust was named Farkhunda Trust in honour of Farkhunda Malikzada who was murdered by a mob in Kabul after being falsely accused of burning a Quran in 2015. Rahela Trust underwent the name change in 2021 out of respect for the family’s wishes who later reneged their permission to name the charity as such.
Mission
Rahela Trust’s mission is to provide university scholarships, mentorship and access to local and global professional networks to disadvantaged and talented Afghan women from rural areas. We prioritise those who are committed to building a future where women are full participants and leaders in society. By growing a community of educated young women committed to improving women’s lives in Afghanistan, Rahela Trust envisages a society where women’s rights are respected. Where women are fully involved in the social, political and economic aspects of life.
In the UK, we strive to build a sense of belonging and connection for UK-based Afghans through the support of women’s education, whilst creating platforms that enable them to contribute to the future development of Afghanistan. This includes advocacy initiatives, political engagement, and community-based events.
Core Values
Quality Scholarships: A commitment to delivering a quality scholarship programme
Transparency: Guaranteed open, detailed, and honest reporting on all activity
Results-based achievement: Shaping our activities to achieve impactful results