From Refugee to Olympian: Manizha Talash Breaks Barriers

Afghan break-dancer Manizha Talash, a refugee who fled the Taliban, is set to perform at the Paris Olympics. Despite the challenges, she never gave up on her passion for break-dancing. Now part of the International Olympics Committee's refugee squad, she aims to inspire Afghan women to follow their dreams.

In a remarkable tale of resilience and determination, Afghan break-dancer Manizha Talash is gearing up to make her Olympic debut in Paris. Having fled Afghanistan after the Taliban's takeover in 2021, Talash has overcome immense challenges to keep her passion for break-dancing alive.

Now settled in Spain, the 21-year-old is part of the International Olympics Committee's refugee squad. Talash hopes her journey, from training secretly in a Kabul club targeted by bombings to performing on the world's biggest stage, will inspire Afghan women to pursue their dreams, despite the obstacles they face.

'Winning a medal is not my main goal,' said Talash. 'I want to show people in Afghanistan that break-dancing is more than just dancing; it's a sport, an art, and a form of cultural expression.'

(With inputs from agencies.)