Story:
In 2014, while studying at Kabul University, I won “Best Male Actor” at the first theater festival, a title I repeated the next year. My performance in The Bear earned a five-minute standing ovation, a moment I hold onto for strength.
I’m the first Afghan actor to earn a Master’s in acting, a qualification no one had before. Throughout my studies, I advocated for human rights and women’s education. My work opposing the Taliban led to threats, especially after portraying a radical Islamic student.
After moving to Turkey in 2019 and earning my Master’s in 2023, I returned to Afghanistan but had to leave again due to safety concerns. I brought my award with me, knowing I may never return. I cannot live in a place that doesn’t value my principles.
– Omid Ahmad Adrak