In brief
Razia Jan, an Afghan-born American entrepreneur and founder of the Zabuli Education Center, passed away on July 20 in Los Angeles due to congestive heart failure. She became a beacon of hope for girls' education in Afghanistan following the 9/11 attack, using her experiences to create lasting educational opportunities despite significant adversity.
In 2001, Razia Jan, who ran a successful dry-cleaning business in Massachusetts, returned to Afghanistan to promote education for girls after the U.S. invasion. Through her initiatives, she opened the Zabuli Education Center near Kabul, overcoming cultural barriers and opposition to educate young girls, even as the Taliban imposed restrictions. Despite facing considerable challenges, her resourcefulness and relentless spirit fostered a nurturing learning environment that enrolled hundreds of female students.Jan was born on June 5, 1944, in Quetta, Pakistan, and obtained degrees in early childhood education from the Government College for Women and Lesley University in Massachusetts. After the Taliban regained control in 2021, she had to close the secondary school and college but continued her efforts to expand her primary school. By 2023, the institution had grown to accommodate over 800 students, demonstrating her unyielding commitment to women's education.Remembered for her charm, determination, and diplomacy, Razia Jan leaves behind a legacy of empowerment for young Afghan girls that will resonate for generations to come. She is survived by her son, brothers, and granddaughter, while her life's work continues through the Razia's Ray of Hope Foundation.
