Manizha Talash’s life took a transformative turn in 2020 when she stumbled upon a video of an Afghan breakdancer on social media. Initially skeptical, the 17-year-old from Kabul found her world opening up to new dreams and possibilities.
Three months later, Talash mustered the courage to visit the gym where the breakdancers, known as the Superiors Crew, trained. “There were 55 boys, and I was the only girl,” Talash recalled. Initially hesitant to do more than watch, her concerns faded as she became familiar with the breaking community, fueling her determination to pursue the sport.
“In that gym, gender was not important,” she fondly remembered. Contrastingly, at school and within her family, she was often reminded, “You’re a girl. You can’t do that thing, or that sport, or that job.” Yet, in the gym, she was encouraged, “You can do it. It is not impossible. It is difficult, but it is not impossible.”
Under the guidance of her first coach, Jawad Sezdah—the very dancer from the video that sparked her passion—Talash delved into mastering power moves and understanding hip-hop culture. Her dedication paid off. Four years later, Talash stands as Afghanistan’s first “b-girl,” a term for female breakdancers. With short, choppy hair and a streetwear style, her composed demeanor reflects the countless hours she invested in her craft.
Now 21, Talash is gearing up to compete in the Paris Olympic Games, attributing her success to the tight-knit breakdancing community in Kabul that nurtured her growth and ambition.