WhatsApp: We Are Ayenda

WhatsApp, the leading global private messaging service, and The Lab, the creative incubator within award-winning production company Anonymous Content, have announced the release of their new documentary, We Are Ayenda, which tells the extraordinary story of the Afghan Youth Women's National Football Team and their remarkable escape from Afghanistan after the Taliban took power in 2021. The documentary debuts during the Women’s World Cup and is available now on Prime Video. The half-hour film, which was adapted and produced by The Lab and directed by award-winning documentary filmmaker Amber Fares, reveals the bravery of these young women and their determination to continue playing the sport they love. The documentary aims to raise awareness of the experience people face when forced to migrate and the power of sport to bring people together. The film follows the profound relationship that develops between Farkhunda Muhtaj, the former captain of Afghanistan’s women’s national football team and humanitarian activist, and the members of the women’s youth team. Despite never having met in person, Farkhunda leads the young women to safety via WhatsApp texts and voice messages, which are woven throughout the documentary to retell their story. The film captures the sheer determination and unwavering spirit of these young athletes, offering a unique perspective into their lives. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, women and girls have been denied their human rights, including the right to go to school, work, and their ability to play sports. According to UN estimates, eight million Afghans have been displaced from their homes due to violence, including millions of refugees now living abroad. To learn more about how you can support the Afghan Youth Women's National Football Team, follow @ayendafc and visit afghangirls.soccerspace.org.