Forced into marriage as a child in Afghanistan, Roya Karimi has escaped violence and oppression and built a new life in Norway.
She fled her home country at the age of 17 with her mother and young son. Today, she’s one of Europe’s top bodybuilders — and a symbol of freedom, strength and self-determination for many Afghan women.
Once she’d arrived in Norway, Karimi set about rebuilding her life. Bodybuilding didn’t just present her with the prospect of a career in sports; it also helped her overcome the physical and mental trauma sustained in the marriage she was forced into as a child.
With discipline and perseverance, she battled her way to a European bodybuilding title. Now her sights are on the international stage: At the Dubai Muscle Show, Roya Karimi aims to prove she’s among the world’s best.
At the same time, she hopes her story will encourage women to pursue their dreams — despite all odds.
00:00 Forced Marriage in Afghanistan
00:30 Violence and the Decision to Flee
01:09 Freedom in Norway
01:36 Forced Marriage and Total Control
02:36 Escape to Europe with Her Son
03:27 Education and a New Beginning
04:22 Bodybuilding as a Way Out
05:16 The Big Goal: World Championship
06:45 Family, Criticism, and Strength
09:57 The Big Competition in Dubai
11:43 A Victory for Afghan Women
#dwnews #womenbodybuilder #afghanistan
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