VOICED: Male Afghan fashionistas makeover Kabul

Obaida Lasix, a fashion designer and model, teaches young male models in Afghanistan, a country where fashion was once suppressed under Taliban rule. Despite the Taliban's ousting, conservative views persist, making fashion a risky pursuit. Lasix, who gained fame in Islamabad, faces threats in his home village. Men's fashion is experiencing a revival in Kabul, inspired by Korean pop stars and David Beckham. However, some religious leaders criticize these trends as un-Islamic. With half the Afghan population under 15, the future of fashion in Afghanistan is uncertain, but figures like Lasix are paving the way for young fashion enthusiasts.

What challenges does Obaida Lasix face as a fashion designer in Afghanistan?

• He struggles to find models.

• He faces threats due to conservative views.

• He has no access to fashion materials.

• He lacks fashion knowledge.

What has influenced the recent revival of men's fashion in Kabul?

• Korean pop stars and David Beckham

• Local Afghan celebrities

• Western movies

• Traditional Afghan attire

Why do some religious leaders criticize the new fashion trends in Afghanistan?

• They think it goes against Islamic traditions.

• They believe it is too expensive.

• They prefer Western fashion.

• They feel it is not colorful enough.

What is the main concern of religious leaders about the fashion trendsetters?

• They are wasting money.

• They are not following Islamic traditions.

• They are not skilled enough.

• They are too young.

What is the demographic characteristic of almost half of the Afghan population?

• They are all fashion designers.

• They are mostly female.

• They are over 30 years old.

• They are under 15 years of age.