A pioneer of women¡¯s football in Afghanistan, she has dedicated her life to advancing gender equality through sport.
After helping establish the national team in 2007, she became a leading advocate for women¡¯s rights and safe participation in sport.
Following the Taliban¡¯s return to power, Khalida helped coordinate the evacuation of Afghan women¡¯s national team players, youth players, and their family members, more than 600 people in total, whose lives were in danger.
She is also the author of the memoir My Beautiful Sisters. Living in exile as a refugee, she continues to advocate globally for the inclusion and empowerment of refugees.
Photo provided by Khalida Popal