Sharbat Gula, famously known as the “Afghan Girl” from the iconic 1984 National Geographic cover, has faced an incredibly difficult life despite her global recognition. Photographed at age 12 in a Pakistani refugee camp, her piercing green eyes became a symbol of war’s impact—yet few knew her story.

Sharbat lost her mother at eight and married at 13. When photographer Steve McCurry found her again in 2002, she was a mother enduring poverty and grief, having lost a daughter shortly after birth. “She looked hardened,” McCurry said, recalling the toll life had taken.

In 2016, Sharbat was arrested in Pakistan over alleged false documents. She had just lost her husband and another daughter. “This was the hardest and worst incident in my life,” she said. After 15 days in custody, she chose to return to Afghanistan, refusing to stay where she felt betrayed.

Following the Taliban’s return in 2021, Italy granted her asylum. Now, she embraces a new chapter of freedom. “My daughter wants to become a doctor,” Sharbat said. “And I promised her I will do everything I can to make her dream come true.”