University: Bachelor of Economics/Social Science, Majors in Economics and Political Science - Graduated 2005 Post-Graduate Certificate in Finance Graduation in 2007 Blog: liddell.nomadlife.org Company: CEED - AIESEC Afghanistan Job Description: Task was to organise a conference bringing together students and business leaders in Kabul to promote greater cooperation and understanding between these two groups and to raise the profile of AIESEC Time in Afghanistan: 3 months February – April 2006

What did you think before coming? 

I initially had some concerns about security, but after speaking to other foreigners from inside and outside of AIESEC I was more comfortable with the security situation and felt that the greater challenge was going to be cultural integration.

I knew that it would be difficult as a foreigner and as a female, but personally, that was the main attraction of going there. I wanted to live in a completely foreign culture.

What was your time in Afghanistan like? 

It was one of the most challenging experiences I have had in my life. I learnt so much about the way I manage myself, the affect I have on people around me, and the appropriate way to behave in a culture that is not my own.  

From an academic point of view – being in Afghanistan was living in a political economic case study where all of the things I had studied came to life.  

I had the opportunity to meet ministers, CEOs, and other dignitaries that it would never be possible to meet here in Australia. Whether it is in the not-for-profit aid sector or the business sector, in Afghanistan I felt so much more in touch and in a much greater position to achieve things and have a greater impact. 

I had thought that being a woman in Afghanistan would be my biggest challenge, but much to my amazement, many things worked out in my favour. To be an Afghan woman in Kabul is one thing and it presents many problems and hardships. To be a foreign woman also has its many difficulties, but in many senses is also such an opportunity. It many senses it is like a bridge between the world of men and the world of women – where most foreign men could never possibly go.  

The other astounding thing about the country was its beauty. Coming from one of the flattest continents on earth I was in awe every day at the mountains surround Kabul. While Afghanistan is not a country that is set up for tourism…yet. It offers what I consider some of the most breathtaking scenery and land in the world.  

What would you say to someone thinking of coming to Afghanistan? 

Speak to as many people you can about going there. You’ll be surprised about how many people know someone who has already been there and everyone is willing to talk about their experience.  

Spend some time before you go considering what your personal reasons for going there are so that you can make sure you achieve those goals and have the experience that you wanted to.