Huge thanks to both The Mails and TheTimes for their support and serialisation of The Lightless Sky.
The Taliban 10-year-old who ran for his life… all the way to the Olympics: He was destined for death as a suicide bomber. So how DID a small boy make it here to star in London 2012? Not the best headlines I have to say 🙂
The Refugee Council: Gulwali Passarlay was forced to flee his home in Afghanistan when he was just 12 years old. His debut book, The Lightless Sky, charts his perilous journey over land and sea to Britain, where he finally found safety. A tale of fortitude and friendship told through a child’s eyes, Gulwali’s story casts much needed light on the difficult decisions refugees are forced to take about who to trust and how to stay alive against a backdrop of political indifference.
http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/latest/blogs/4450_the_lightless_sky
All refugees want is to be treated as humans
Gulwali Passarlay fled Afghanistan and travelled across Europe as a refugee at the age of 12. Ahead of giving the Amnesty International lecture at this year’s Ulster Bank Belfast International Arts Festival, he spoke to Jane Hardy
At 12 Gulwali Passarlay was sent away from Afghanistan by his mother to escape the conflict that claimed his father’s life. After a harrowing journey across eight countries he arrived in the UK a year later. Now 21, he is in his third year studying politics at the University of Manchester and works with aid organisations and youth groups. His ambition is to return to Afghanistan and become its president in 2035. The Lightless Sky – An Afghan Refugee Boy’s Journey is published by Atlantic Books.
Gulwali Passarlay grew up in eastern Afghanistan, not far from where the al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden, had his stronghold. Gulwali’s family were very pro-Taliban- his uncle was a senior commander – and Gulwali grew up hating the West and all it stood for. He has been on a phenomenal journey since then – both physically and mentally. As a 12-year-old he made the journey, by himself, from Afghanistan to the UK, facing one catastrophe after another. Now 21, he is a final year student at a leading university in Britain.
And many more local radio interviews but this one was interesting with US;
One of our main event will take place in London at SOAS on the 29th October 7pm. The event is organised by SOAS AfghanSociety and I look forward to your attendance and participations in the evening. Here is the link to the event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1689012611343358/
Youth activism and political engagements.
For the last five years, I have had the opportunity to get involve with many different committees, groups, forums and commissions to make a positive difference, influence policy and decision makers on issues; I am passionate and care about. However, it’s now time to move on but without forgetting the amazing experiences of being part of a change through youth representation and participation. I shall certainly not forget the inspiring people I met along the way and will continue play my part to make the world a better place. Of course, I have left many local groups a few years back as I have move forward in my personal and political developments. Here are some of my involvement and participation. I shall continue to play my part and make a positive difference.
Member of Bolton Youth Council; served as Youth Councillor from 2010-2012 http://www.bolton.gov.uk/website/pages/YouthVoice.aspx
2020 Education Youth Ambassador;
2013 onwards working with a group of young people to created an education fit for purpose and 21st century. The project is lead by MomentumWorld.
Member of National Scrutiny Group [Representing the North West in NSG] – 2012-2014, this has been an excellent opportunity for me to represent the voices of young people and advice the government on youth policies.
2014/15, absolutely one of the best and amazing opportunity to work with young people and some dedicated and committed youth voice champion at the NHS 😉
