A funding appeal has been launched to help three Afghan creatives in danger of being deported from Pakistan into the hands of the Taliban.
Ocean Shores woman Sara Gloede has started the appeal to pay for visa extensions so Sabz and Hamid Ehsas, and Krishma Obaidi can remain in Pakistan while their refugee status is being processed.
Northern Rivers for Refugees has already provided substantial financial and emotional support, but ongoing help is urgently needed.
Thanks to the generosity of people in the Northern Rivers, these artists were first supported more than four years ago through the Project 50 initiative, which helped 50 Afghan artists at high risk submit humanitarian visa applications.
Krishma Obaidi is an actress and journalist presenting news to Afghans via the Kabul News TikTok channel, which reaches over 20,000 followers. Her reporting challenges Taliban censorship and provides truthful news to Afghans across borders. Despite repeated assaults and threats, Krishma continues her work.
Also at risk are actress Sabz Ehsas, who is pregnant, and her husband Hamid Ehsas, a respected Afghan director, actor, editor, and producer, best known for his film Ruthless Father. Their artistic work and social media profile has made them visible and vulnerable, and they face significant threats due to their public profiles and outspoken views.
Pakistan has begun expelling Afghan refugees without visas and has made the cost of visa extensions high – $US750 for six months. The UNHCR has urged Pakistan to exempt vulnerable Afghans from deportation.
To offer ongoing support, contact Sara Gloede via email.
Krishma Obaidi presents her Tik Tok news.
