Born in Afghanistan, migrating to Pakistan at age six, and then returning to Afghanistan three years later—due to the uncertain conditions within the region—Ahmad Farid Farhan says, “the best hobby I had as a little boy, was drawing and sketching on the walls around our camp.”

This childhood of hope was the impetus for Ahmad’s eventual artistic pursuits. After years of studying working hard, Ahmad was finally able to convince his family to allow him to pursue his passion, which is when Ahmad entered Kabul University: “every time I enter the art faculty gates, I feel like I’ve truly done something with my life and every time I paint, draw, or do anything related to art, I feel something like an infinite happiness inside me that makes life full of joy for me.” As a visual artist, Ahmad’s intention is to “share positive messages and thoughts with [his] peers, who endured [challenges], and to bring hope.”