Hamna Zafar
At the tender age of 19, Hamna Zafar, a Pakistani American hailing from Maryland, found herself standing at a crossroads that would shape the course of her life. Confronted with the ultimatum of succumbing to an arranged marriage in Pakistan or pursuing her American dream, this obedient daughter faced a profound dilemma.
Born into an immigrant family, Zafar had always adhered to familial expectations, but her world was shattered when her parents suddenly insisted on an arranged marriage. The revelation struck during what seemed like an ordinary family trip to Pakistan in 2019, turning out to be her engagement party. Caught off guard and pressured into a commitment she had not chosen, Zafar grappled with the clash between her parents’ traditions and her own aspirations.
Unwilling to surrender her autonomy, Zafar devised a daring escape plan. Seeking refuge with a Navy recruiter and later finding solace with the family of a college friend, she landed under the wing of Claudia Barrera, now fondly referred to as mom. Barrera’s home became a sanctuary, enabling Zafar to complete her associate degree.
In a bold move in 2022, Zafar enlisted in the US Air Force, where she currently serves as a Security Defender. Yet, the transition presented its own set of challenges, as Zafar navigated a culture shock during training, entering a world where no one had ever raised their voice at her.
A petite and humble Air Force enlistee, Zafar reflects on her journey, underscoring the paramount importance of breaking free from societal expectations. Her story resonates as a testament to resilience, defiance, and the unwavering pursuit of individual dreams against the backdrop of familial and cultural pressures.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.
