At UWC ISAK Japan, students don’t just learn in the classroom—they take on real-world challenges and create meaningful change. Ismat Musafir (Afghanistan / Class of 2019) is a great example of this. From founding Education for Everyone (E4E) as a student-led initiative to working in nonprofit management, his journey reflects resilience, leadership, and a strong belief in the power of education.
Education for Everyone: A Lifelong Commitment
Ismat’s passion for education is deeply personal. Growing up as a war refugee, he saw firsthand the barriers to quality education in Afghanistan. That experience motivated him to launch Education for Everyone (E4E) at UWC ISAK Japan as a CAS project. What began as a small student-led initiative has since grown into a structured movement tackling educational inequalities in underserved communities.
One of E4E’s early milestones was establishing a library at Ahangaran Secondary School through a Projects for Peace grant. The library quickly became a vital resource for students and community members in a region where learning spaces are scarce. But the education system in Afghanistan has changed significantly. In response to the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education beyond sixth grade, E4E has adjusted its approach, working to provide online learning resources to affected students.
“Impact takes time, sometimes generations,” Ismat reflects. “Things don’t always go as planned, but adaptability is key.” His ability to stay flexible while staying true to his mission highlights the long-term vision of E4E—to create sustainable, accessible education for all.
From UWC ISAK Japan to the Global Stage
Since graduating in 2019, Ismat has built an impressive academic and professional path. He completed undergraduate degrees in Business Administration and Business Management, with minors in Entrepreneurship and Education, before earning a Master’s in Global Business in 2024. Alongside his studies, he has remained dedicated to nonprofit work, contributing to the Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees (VICCIR) while continuing to lead Education for Everyone (E4E) in Afghanistan.
Looking back on his time at UWC ISAK Japan, Ismat credits leadership challenges, CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) projects, and the school’s diverse community for shaping his perspective. These experiences pushed him to think critically, embrace different viewpoints, and take initiative—skills that continue to guide his work today.
Expanding His Reach
Alongside his work with E4E, Ismat is gaining hands-on experience at VICCIR, where he focuses on nonprofit management, operations, and organizational development. These skills are essential as he looks to formally register E4E as a nonprofit and scale its impact.
His ambitions extend beyond education. Completing his Master’s in Global Business in December 2024 gave him the opportunity to travel internationally, broadening his understanding of different cultures. He has also challenged himself physically, running half-marathons in Taiwan and Austria and climbing Taiwan’s highest peak, Yushan (3,952m).
The Lasting Impact of UWC ISAK Japan
For Ismat, the lessons learned at UWC ISAK Japan continue to shape his leadership and approach to problem-solving. “Being a catalyst for positive change is the most important value I carry with me,” he says.
He remains deeply grateful to the mentors, teachers, and peers who supported him along the way. “Lin-san, my donors, all my teachers (both current and former), staff, my roommates, mentors, and classmates—each of them has left a lasting impact on my life. Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my potential gave me the confidence to pursue my goals. I will always be thankful for their support, and I carry their lessons with me in everything I do.”
Looking Ahead
Ismat’s future goals include pursuing a PhD and expanding Education for Everyone’s reach. He is particularly focused on ensuring that Afghan girls can continue their education despite the restrictions they face. “I hope to receive support in making this happen,” he says, hopeful that collaboration and advocacy will drive meaningful change.
His advice to current UWC ISAK Japan students? “CAS can be more than just a high school project; it can become something truly meaningful and long-lasting. Passion is key—if your heart is in it, it will be a lifelong journey of impact and fulfillment.”
Ismat’s journey serves as a strong reminder that education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about using that knowledge to empower others and transform lives.
To learn more about Education for Everyone’s ongoing initiatives, visit Education for Everyone or search “Education for Everyone Afghanistan” on Google.
