Charmaghz, the NGO founded by Somerville alumna Freshta Karim (2016, MPP Public Policy), has been named by the 2024 Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program as a Successful Practice Honoree.
Charmaghz was recognised in the Elevating Youth Voices category for the work that they do to ensure Afghan children have access to critical literacy and numeracy support.
Visitors to one Charmaghz’s libraries
Charmaghz operates a chain of mobile libraries in Afghanistan which provide a safe, supportive, and creative environment for children. Children visiting these libraries are supported to build basic literacy and numeracy skills, but also to engage in art activities, have an open mind, think critically, and to develop a love of reading. Charmaghz uses trauma-informed approaches that support children to process the distress and grief that nearly every Afghan has experienced.
The Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program honours organizations that have made outstanding contributions to increasing literacy in the United States or abroad. The awards encourage the development of innovative methods to combat illiteracy, and draw public attention to the importance of literacy, and the need to promote literacy and encourage reading.
Members of Charmaghz’s team at the Library of Congress Literacy Awards
Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden, recognised the 2024 Literacy Award recipients for their outstanding achievements in promoting literacy and a love for reading at the National Library in Washington, D.C. Representatives from the twenty-four organisations, including members of Charmaghz’s team, travelled to attend the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Annual Symposium and Recognition event on 30th October.
This recognition is especially meaningful in the current context of Afghanistan, where educational opportunities for children, and especially for girls, have become increasingly restricted. Despite these challenges, Charmaghz is dedicated to providing access to education to Afghan children, particularly girls. Their chain of mobile libraries has been visited over a million times by children since its launch in 2018.
Freshta Karim
Freshta Karim commented, ‘This award highlights the resilience and determination of our team, particularly all our female librarians, especially those based in Kabul, who continue to work tirelessly to keep the doors of knowledge open and to provide Afghan children with the tools to dream of and build a brighter future.’
Freshta expressed her gratitude to Somerville for supporting her work, and welcomes connections from any College alumni or members who are interested in supporting Charmaghz’s work.