Book Farkhunda Muhtaj, Social Justice & Human Rights Speaker

About This Speaker

Farkhunda Muhtaj is a professional soccer player and social activist. She serves as Captain of the Afghanistan Women’s National Team. Farkhunda also competes for Calgary WILD FC in the Northern Super League.

In 2021, the Taliban returned to power. In response, Farkhunda led the evacuation of more than 300 Afghans, including the Afghanistan Youth National Team. Two documentaries captured her role in this effort. We Are Ayenda, presented by WhatsApp, won the Cannes Lions Grand Prix. AYENDA, presented by MSNBC and executive produced by Rashida Jones and Trevor Noah, brought her story to a global audience.

The daughter of former Afghan refugees, Farkhunda immigrated to Canada at the age of two. That experience inspired her to co-found Scarborough Simbas. The non-profit uses sport to support refugees and newcomers settling in Canada. She also serves as an ambassador for Right To Play Canada and a supporter of UNHCR Canada.

Farkhunda holds two degrees from York University. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Sciences and a Bachelor of Education in Science and Physical Education. Farkhunda captained the women’s soccer team and earned recognition as a U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian, OUA First Team All-Star, and OUA Gold Medalist.

Farkhunda Muhtaj speaks on global active citizenship, the transformational power of sport, leadership in times of crisis, growth mindset, and women’s and refugee rights. FC Barcelona and organizations worldwide have recognized her contributions and leadership.

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Speaking Topics: Farkhunda Muhtaj

Power of Sport

Sport is one of the most powerful mechanisms to achieve social cohesion and break down oppressive barriers. It unites people like nothing else. Sports transformational power can give people hope, a platform to express themselves, an opportunity to showcase their vibrant culture and values, and most importantly build bridges between communities.

Attendee results:
- Learn how sport can tackle some of the biggest global issues such as – war, forced displacement, racism, and climate change among many others
- Understand why representation matters and how to truly make sport a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive place for everyone.
- Develop a sport strategy that will benefit the culture of your sport team or organization.

Global Active Citizenship And Social Justice

Humanity stretches far beyond our geographic locations and boundaries. We are all responsible for the change we want to see in the world, and it starts by each and every one of us using our platform, skills and resources to help solve global issues. Refugee, displacement, humanitarian relief, and social inequalities can be addressed when we all collectively take part in the solution.

Finding Your Purpose And Managing Your Time Doing It

In the era of increased knowledge, information and materialism, our brains are more stimulated than ever. We’re flooded with more advice, methodologies, and ways of attaining our goals yet almost never find the time to be able to attain them. We are more confused and consumed than ever. Muhtaj helps you discover your full potential and how you can achieve all your unique goals simultaneously. As a full-time professional footballer, social activist, business owner, director and ambassador of multiple global organizations and brands, Muhtaj will help you organize your life so that you can extract more purpose without jeopardizing any of your commitments.

Leading Under Pressure - Navigating Crisis, Making Decisions, Inspiring Teams

In moments of uncertainty, true leadership is revealed. Farkhunda shares powerful lessons from captaining a national team during a crisis, offering actionable strategies on decision-making, trustbuilding, and leading when the stakes are highest.

More Than a Game - Using Sport as a Platform for Global Impact

Football gave her a voice, but purpose gave it power. This keynote explores how individuals and organizations can leverage their platforms to drive meaningful social change.

Resilience Redefined - Strength, Adaptability, and the Human Spirit

A deeply personal and moving talk on resilience beyond clichés. Farkhunda redefines what it means to endure, adapt, and move forward when life takes unexpected turns.

Championing Women’s Rights - Advocacy, Courage, and Global Responsibility

A firsthand account of activism for women and girls in some of the most challenging circumstances paired with a call to action for leaders and organizations worldwide.

Identity & Belonging - The Immigrant Experience in Canada and Beyond

A powerful reflection on navigating identity, culture, and belonging; resonating with diverse, global audiences.