Fariba Mohibi (pen name Andishvar, meaning The Contemplative One in Dari) is a 19-year-old Afghan poet who has been collaborating with Canyon Crest Academy, a high school in San Diego, California, since April 2021.

Her debut poetry collection, "Why Was I Born a Girl," was published and produced by Steve Halle, professor at Illinois State University, in collaboration with Press 254 and Spoon River Poetry Review. In 2023, several of her poems were also featured in the anthology "Arrows of Light: The Journeys of Afghan Women," published by the International Women’s Writing Guild (ISBN: 979-8-218-21240-7).

Since January 26, 2025, Fariba and her brother have been living in Oman. On April 10, she was scheduled for an interview to participate in a writers’ conference in California, but unfortunately, it was cancelled. Currently, they are living in hiding in Oman.

In order to stay safely and pursue her goals, she urgently needs to apply for a new visa and long-term residency permit—which comes at a significant financial cost.

Why Your Support Matters

Fariba is more than a writer—she is a voice for the unheard. Her poetry captures the resilience, fear, and hope of Afghan girls growing up under oppression. Even in exile, she remains committed to using her words to advocate for human rights, education, and freedom of expression.

By supporting this campaign, you will help her:

- Apply for a new visa and residency permit in Oman

- Secure permanent status and work authorization

- Continue her education, creative writing, and advocacy work

- Build a future free from fear and uncertainty

“I write not just for myself,” Fariba says, “but for every girl who’s been told her voice doesn’t matter. My poems are the words we were never allowed to speak.”

Your support will help her continue her journey as a writer and human rights advocate while she navigates this difficult transition.

*Your donation—no matter the amount—can make a life-changing difference. If you cannot contribute financially, please help by sharing this campaign. Together, we can help Fariba find safety, stability, and a chance to continue her powerful work.*

*Thank you for believing in her voice.*