This powerful and timely book delves into the pivotal role Afghan women have played—and continue to play—in shaping the country’s social and economic future. Mahbooba Waizi blends rigorous research with her own compelling personal story, to bring to life the voices and experiences of women who, against immense odds, continue to transform their families, communities, and the nation.

From entrepreneurs and educators to grassroots organizers and activists, these women are not just participants in Afghanistan’s development—they are architects of change. Through vivid accounts and detailed analysis, the book explores their agency in business, the creation of economic institutions, and community-based initiatives that improve everyday life.

Spanning critical themes such as girls’ education, social norms, family structures, displacement, insecurity, and post-conflict reconstruction, this book offers a deeply human perspective rooted in academic insight, fieldwork, personal interviews, and the author’s lived experience.

With clarity and compassion, it traces a remarkable journey from marginalization to empowerment—revealing the courage, ingenuity, and enduring spirit of Afghan women. For anyone seeking to understand Afghanistan’s complex realities and the extraordinary contributions of its women, this is an essential read.

'Mahbooba Waizi's excellent book vividly captures the long and winding road of women’s empowerment in Afghanistan—not only through her work with women across the country but also through her own personal journey.'
Dr. Linda Jones, International Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Specialist

'Mahbooba Waizi tells the story of decades of experiences and struggles...I recommend that all women’s organizations, as well as political and economic organizations, effectively utilize this work.'
Professor Sayed Massoud, Kabul University, Canada

'[This book] reflects the labour and dedication of a woman who has spent her life pursuing the ideals of the women of this country...She still continues to walk this difficult and winding road, amplifying the voices of Afghan women to the farthest corners of the world. Professor, we hope to see the publication of many more valuable books from you in the future.'
Dr. Nasima Masoud, Member of the Board of Directors of the Afghan Women Business Council, Canada

'This book reflects Ms. Waizi's innovative initiatives in facing her life challenges and her valuable perspectives on women, and I hope it inspires all women.'
Kubra Zzaifi, Member of the Board of Directors, AWBC, Settlement and Trauma Counsellor, Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT)

'From Idea to Action, showcases a constructive and practical perspective that instils hope in the hearts of people. It also demonstrates how a woman, through hard work and perseverance, has found appropriate solutions to challenges and problems throughout different periods of history, standing alongside the people, especially women. This approach has led to positive changes and effective steps towards sustainability.'
Zarghuna Walizada, Member of the Board of Directors of the (AWBC), Founder and CEO of Tac Taz Group of Companies

Mahbooba Waizi
Former Professor, Faculty of Language and Literature, Kabul University Afghanistan; Former CEO, Afghan Women Business Council.