Three remarkable young women acclimate to life and high school in the Berkshires

Three remarkable young women from Afghanistan. Masuda, Humaira, and Sara have journeyed to the United States in search of educational opportunities that have been denied to them in their homeland, where women and girls have been barred from attending secondary school since the Taliban regained power in 2021.

The initiative to welcome these students began on January 20, 2024, when Mike Weinstein, an advocate for Afghan girls’ education, reached out to Berkshire Waldorf High School. His email detailed the extraordinary circumstances surrounding Masuda, a top female student from Kabul. After considering Masuda’s situation, the school’s administration, led by Stephen Sagarin and Samantha Stier, expressed a willingness to support her education with a full scholarship, marking the beginning of an inspiring program.

Masuda, Humaira, and Sara faced immense challenges in their pursuit of education. With support from organizations such as Afghan Scouts and Afghan Girls Financial Assistance Fund, these young women navigated a complex and dangerous path to reach safety in the U.S. They spent several months in Pakistan preparing for their visa interviews and are now navigating their new lives in New England, with the support of their host families and the Berkshire Waldorf High School community.

“The resilience and determination of these young women are nothing short of inspiring,” said Admissions Director Samantha Stier. “We are honored to provide them with the educational environment they deserve, one that fosters growth, creativity, and community.”

Berkshire Waldorf High School initiated a fundraising campaign that has raised more than $12,000 from private donors, including Jane Iredale, Carole Owens, and Bobbie Hallig, to support the Afghan students, helping cover costs for program fees, school supplies, and much more. The commitment of the local Berkshire community has been integral to this initiative, demonstrating the power of collective action in making a difference.

“We made the decision to waive all tuition for this program,” said Patrick White, Chief Financial Officer. “The generosity of the Board will have an immense impact on the arc of these young women’s lives. Whether in America or halfway around the world, we believe we must do everything we can to combat systemic misogyny and violence directed at women and girls.”

As they acclimate to life at Berkshire Waldorf High School, Masuda, Humaira, and Sara are engaging in an education that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and personal development. They are thriving academically and socially, forming bonds with their peers, and embracing the opportunities afforded to them.

“We are grateful for this chance to pursue our dreams,” said Masuda. “Despite the challenges we face, we are hopeful for the future and excited to learn and grow in this new environment.”

“I had a hard time with homesickness, as we don’t know if we will see our families… honestly, ever again,” said Sara. “But I’m not afraid to speak out. People all over the world need to know what is happening in Afghanistan. They cannot ignore it. None of us can. We are strong, and our families have all said that education is the most important of all things.”

Berkshire Waldorf High School remains committed to supporting these students and exploring opportunities to welcome more Afghan girls in the future. The ongoing collaboration with various organizations and local families demonstrates a profound commitment to education and equity for all.

“Through this work, I have a much better understanding of how much the girls and their families are risking for them to come here, and how much they are giving up,” said Stier. “They are bright, upright, motivated, talented young women with stellar academic records and English fluency. Their dream is to be able to continue their education. What these organizations are doing is truly remarkable. I hope we can continue this program and accept more Afghan students in the future.”