#102: Marnie Gustavson - Falling for Afghanistan Before the Fall | The Afghanistan Series

CommunityActivismEducation

Jan 7

Written By Samuel Donner

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Episode Description

What does it mean to fall in love with a place? In this episode, we explore this question by talking to Marnie Gustavson, the executive director of PARSA Afghanistan and leader of the Afghan Scouts revival movement. Though her journey actually began in Washington, Marnie was introduced to Afghanistan at 9 years old when her father relocated the family for his new job. Growing up in a foreign country, she struggled against cultural gender roles but eventually found her passion for leadership and directing through bargaining in Afghan markets. After returning to the US, Marnie realized how much she missed Afghanistan and decided she wanted it to be her permanent home. It was there she got her unlikely start at PARSA that led to the creation of her own program Sisters for Sisters and Brothers for Brothers. When the Afghan government unexpectedly collapsed during the 2021 Taliban Offensive, Marnie’s organization was faced with sudden social upheaval. In the face of great adversity, Marnie shares stories of resilience from Afghan citizens and reflects on her duty to the country she loves.

Show Notes

Childhood: At a young age, Marnie moved to Afghanistan with her family.
Outsider’s Empathy: It was hard adjusting to a completely different culture and facing challenges as a girl, but she learnt how to cope with her empathy.
Performance Art: Marnie went back to the U.S and acquired a performance art degree, which helped her directing her career later on.
Returning: In 2003, Marnie went back to Afghanistan for trips, yet discovered her continuing love for the country and its people.
Planting Roots: After deciding to plant her roots in Afghanistan, she faces different career choices.
PARSA: Marnie redirected her course and found her place at PARSA.
Orphanage Scout Program: To advocate for orphanages’ basic needs, Marnie was inspired by her son to start scout programs for the youth population.
Sisters For Sisters, Brothers For Brothers: Marnie built closer relationships with the girls who love the program.
Taliban Invasion: The drastic trauma of the fall of Afghanistan under the attack of Taliban left PARSA shattered.
Resilience Within PARSA: Although the programs inevitably came to a halt, they are not stopping.
Holding On: Marnie is waiting for the chance to return and help the youth.
A New Hope: Marnie believes that there is still hope for a peaceful Afghanistan.