Dyana Afghan Women's Fund

The Dyana Afghan Women's Fund (DAWF) is a Canadian registered charity established in 2004 by Nelofer Pazira, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and journalist. It is operated entirely by volunteers and focuses on providing education and skills training opportunities for women and girls in Afghanistan.

Background and Mission

Nelofer Pazira founded DAWF as a tribute to her friend Dyana, who lost her life during the Taliban rule. The organization was inspired by a chance encounter with Safia Ama Jan, a former teacher in Kandahar who had set up a women's center for literacy and skills training. This model influenced Pazira to replicate similar initiatives in other parts of Afghanistan.

DAWF's mission is to empower women and girls through education, particularly in areas where educational services are limited or nonexistent.

Programs and Initiatives

Starting in 2006, DAWF has successfully implemented a literacy program in remote villages of Bamiyan province, central Afghanistan. This program consists of five levels, each lasting six months. Upon completion, participants gain the skills necessary to continue their education or find employment. The program also fosters community engagement, as students share their newfound skills with their families and community members.

The organization relies on donations to support its programs. For example, a $20 donation covers a student's school supplies, while $150 enables a student to attend six months of classes. Funds are allocated towards teacher salaries, classroom rent, and purchasing local educational materials.

Structure and Operations

DAWF operates with a small, focused approach, concentrating on one project at a time. All members are volunteers, ensuring that resources are maximally utilized towards achieving the organization's goals. Contributions and support from donors are crucial for expanding their programs to reach more communities in Afghanistan.

[1] http://www.dawf.ca [2] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/dyana-afghan-womens-fund/ [3] http://www.dawf.ca/about.htm [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/dyana-afghan-womens-fund/campaign/support-literacy-programs-for-women-in-afghanistan/ [5] https://carleton.ca/senate/nelofer-pazira/