40 days to 40

(Now 38 days to 40)

The time is nearly here—I’m about to step into a new decade. It’s both a little scary, knowing that we only grow older from here, and incredibly exciting, as I continue to grow into myself, my power, and my purpose.

On the morning of 25th February 1985, a little dark-skinned girl was born in a small village in Türkiye. She was welcomed into the world, though perhaps with a tinge of disappointment—she wasn’t a boy. This is one of my earliest stories, and it was very unhelpful.

It’s never been easy to be a woman, neither in the country where I was born nor in others I’ve lived or visited. But despite the challenges, I am so proud, so grateful, to be a woman. My upbringing was deeply traditional and religious, yet my education was never questioned—it was simply part of my life path. And for that, I am endlessly thankful. Despite its flaws, my education is what enabled me to be where I am today.

I shudder to think of what might have been if that opportunity had been taken away. If I had been forced to not only cover my hair but my face, silence my voice and erase my very existence.

This is the stark reality facing girls in Afghanistan today. In 2025, in this age of technology, progress, and global awareness, Afghan girls are being erased from public life. Their right to education, work, and freedom has been stripped away under the Taliban’s oppressive rule.

As I celebrate my 40th birthday, I want to show solidarity to those brave women who continue to resist. So, instead of gifts, I boldly ask for generosity—to support FAWN (Friends of Afghan Women Network) that takes practical steps to deliver real impact - providing direct support to women on the ground to stay active and connected, build sustainable livelihoods, and access essential resources. Let’s show them we have not forgotten them!

That is not it; there’s one more organization that I’d like to support—SAPA (Sudanese American Physicians Association). It’s heart-wrenching to read the news about Sudan: Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence, with entire communities displaced, infrastructure destroyed, and access to essential resources—like food, water, and medical care—severely restricted. The systemic violence, particularly targeted at women and girls, is a horrifying feature of these conflicts, leaving survivors with physical and emotional scars.

SAPA is playing a critical role in addressing the humanitarian crisis by providing medical assistance, supporting local healthcare providers, and advocating for justice and peace. Supporting their efforts is not only a small but meaningful act, but also a powerful message that says, 'We see you, and we stand with you.'

The funds will be distributed equally between these organisations.

Please donate here. 

Thank you for your love and support.

Tugba x

Ps: I don’t need gifts or treats, but a little note on the post always brightens my day!