VOICED : Afghanistan's first female orchestra set to take Davos

Zara, Afghanistan's only all-female orchestra, led by conductor Ngina Pelvic, consists of young women who have faced significant challenges, including family opposition and societal discrimination, to pursue music. Despite Afghanistan's history of conflict and the global perception of violence, these women are changing narratives by performing both Afghan and Western music. Violinist Arifa Adiba and her peers are determined to bring change through education and music. Their European tour, including a performance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlights their mission to alter attitudes both internationally and domestically.

What is the main challenge faced by the members of Zara, Afghanistan's all-female orchestra?

• Insufficient funding

• Family opposition and societal discrimination

• No access to music education

• Lack of musical instruments

What misconception about Afghanistan is highlighted in the second section?

• Every Afghan is associated with violence

• Afghanistan is a peaceful country

• Afghanistan has no cultural heritage

• All Afghans are musicians

Who is Arifa Adiba and what is her role in the orchestra?

• A composer of traditional music

• A violinist aiming to bring change

• A singer performing Western music

• A conductor leading the orchestra

What significant event is part of the orchestra's achievements?

• Winning a national music competition

• Collaborating with international artists

• Performing at the World Economic Forum in Davos

• Recording an album in a famous studio

What is the long-term goal of the younger generation in Afghanistan, as mentioned in the third section?

• To become famous musicians

• To preserve traditional Afghan music

• To travel and perform worldwide

• To change the country through education