Holding on to hope

I left for Afghanistan with a great deal of curiosity, peppered with a bit of apprehension. As I prepare to leave, I find it hard to sum up my experience with resorting to clichés. It is dangerous and yet hospitable due to the warmth of its people, frustrating for those who work there and yet incredibly rewarding.

As Afghanistan emerges from over thirty years of war, the last few of which were particularly devastating, it is heartening to see such a strong sense of ambition and hope amongst its young people, many of whom have never known life outside the conflict.

Talking to them is what I have enjoyed most about my trip and what I want to feedback to donors.

From being fortunate enough to spend time with Save the Children staff in Afghanistan and living with some of them, I am filled with so much admiration.

They are truly inspiring dramatic change for Afghan children under very difficult and insecure circumstances and I am so proud to belong to such a committed workforce.