Somaya Faruqi’s journey began in Herat, Afghanistan, where she developed an early interest in engineering by working alongside her father in his old mechanical shop in the neighborhood.
Surrounded by tools and machines, she was introduced to the basics of building and problem-solving at a young age. By the age of 14, she had joined the Afghan Girls Robotics Team, and by 17, she became the captain, leading the team in international competitions and global innovation challenges.
Together, they built robots designed to solve real-world problems, including a low-cost ventilator during the COVID-19 pandemic and a wheat-harvesting robot to help farmers. They participated in more than 12 competitions worldwide, earning international recognition for their work.
As one of the most recognized members of the team, Faruqi was named to BBC’s 100 Women list and Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia, becoming a global voice for girls in science and education.
“Growing up in Afghanistan and being part of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team was a journey shaped by both challenges and resilience,” she said. “There were many moments when the path forward felt uncertain, but I held on to the belief that education and perseverance could change my future.”
That belief carried her forward to California State University, Sacramento, where she continued her studies and deepened her focus in engineering as a Qatar Scholarship for Afghans Project (QSAP) student. Over the past four years, she has not only completed her degree but also distinguished herself through academic excellence and leadership.
Faruqi graduates this spring with multiple honors. She was named Outstanding Student of the Engineering Department and received the Dean’s Award from the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
At the May 22 commencement ceremony, she will also receive the President’s Award, the university’s highest honor for a graduating student, and deliver a speech.
“In my speech, I will proudly share that I come from a country where girls are currently denied the right to education,” she said. “ We are asking for education because we have the potential; we just need the opportunity.”
“I stand here today as proof of what becomes possible when a girl is given that chance, and I hope my journey encourages others to believe in the power of education to change not just one life, but entire communities.”
Looking ahead, Faruqi plans to pursue graduate studies in manufacturing engineering after a one-year break. She also remains committed to advocating for Afghan girls and expanding access to education.
“I feel incredibly proud and grateful. This journey represents not only my own efforts, but also the hopes of many girls who are still fighting for their right to learn.”
“It is difficult to find the right words after years of hardship and uncertainty. But our history shows that Afghanistan has risen again and again after every fall. I truly believe that this time will be one of the strongest rises yet.”
To girls in Afghanistan, she shares a message of strength and hope:
“No matter how difficult it feels today, your dreams are valid, and your strength matters.”
About QSAP
The Qatar Scholarship for Afghans Project (QSAP) is one of the largest initiatives of its kind, offering fully funded higher education opportunities to Afghan students so they can continue their studies at colleges and universities outside Afghanistan. The U.S. Department of State supports the program and is a partnership between the Afghan Future Fund (AFF), the Institute of International Education (IIE) and the Education Above All Foundation (EAA).