They were a symbol of progress in Afghanistan.

In a country where women faced brutal repression and were banned from schools and employment outside their homes, an all-girls robotic team from Herat made international headlines for both their outsized accomplishments and their mere existence. The team proved that a post-Taliban Afghanistan hosted new opportunities for women.

But with the Taliban’s recent return, the girls no longer felt safe. Some fled to Qatar with their families. Others were welcomed in Mexico, which has made an effort to accept female refugees.

NBC’s Richard Engel caught up with some of the girls in Doha, the Qatari capital. Eighteen year-old team captain Somaya Faruqi explained β€œNothing can stop us. We continue our way.” (Watch Above)

“Somaya said fixing things makes her feel free and powerful and taking part in international competitions has given her an opportunity to show the world what Afghan girls can do, and that Afghanistan is not just about never-ending wars,” reports NBC News.

In Mexico, five members of the team were among a group of refugees that also included journalists and media members.

“We are very happy to be here and it is an honor that the government of Mexico has honored us with being here and having saved our lives,” roboticist Fatemah Qaderyan said at a press conference on Tuesday.
“From now on forward we will have opportunities for many more achievements in our lives, and thus be part of the fight for a better life,” Qaderyan said. “Although we are far from our homes, we will always be united and thanks to your help we will achieve it, thank you very much, we really appreciate having all our things here in Mexico with us.”
The team plans to compete in a robotics competition next month. Recent projects include building ventilators for COVID-19 patients out of used car parts.