About Ariana

I am Ariana Abawe, a London-based journalist originally from Afghanistan, known as 'Ariana the journalist'. My passion for journalism has led me to work for various newspapers, magazines, and online publications such as MyLondon, BBC, Unread Magazine, Gaya Magazine, and more. I take great pride in announcing that Ariana Magazine has been awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award by West London Business 2022, Outstanding Young Person of the Year 2022 by Harrow's Heroes and also Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist by Sisters in Business 2023. 

I completed my undergraduate degree in Journalism with First Class Honours from Brunel University of London in 2020, alongside a Gold Standard Diploma in NCTJ and a 100WPM shorthand.

My primary objective as a journalist is to give voice to the voiceless and amplify their stories. As an Afghan, I strive to showcase the Afghan community and its culture to the world. In addition, I aim to highlight the talented individuals within our Afghan community, including artists, actors, entrepreneurs, writers, fashion designers, and more. Afghanistan's rich heritage has been overshadowed by media coverage of the war, and thus, through my magazine, I hope to shed light on the positive aspects of the country. Furthermore, I aim to highlight non-Afghans' connections to Afghanistan and how they are demonstrating the rich culture of the country and helping its people.

I choose the magazine's name, 'Ariana,' as it originates from the old name of Afghanistan thousands of years ago. The ancient Greeks referred to the region comprising Iran, Afghanistan, and half of Pakistan and Turkey as 'Ariana.' Therefore, this name encapsulates the history of Afghanistan that I intend to showcase in the magazine.

I hope you enjoy reading the magazine. If you have any submissions, such as short stories, artwork, or photography, please feel free to contact me through the website's contact form or DM me on Instagram @arianathejournalist for a chance to be featured in the magazine.


If you would like me to speak at your events please don't hesitate to contact me using the contact form or DM on Instagram 

Ariana Abawe, a highly accomplished individual, has delivered captivating talks at prestigious universities such as Cambridge University and Middlesex University. Known for her expertise and engaging speaking style, Ariana has enlightened students with her insights on various subjects. Her ability to connect with audiences has also granted her the opportunity to speak at esteemed events like the Young People and Communities Conference, hosted by the Mayor of London at City Hall. Ariana's speaking engagements extend far beyond these notable occasions, as she has been interviewed by BBC Sounds, BBC Pashto, Voice of America Pashto, The Times Radio, Brown Girl Magazine, Islam Channel, Afghanistan International TV and Hillingdon Herald, establishing herself as a prominent speaker in academic and community settings. Ariana Magazine was also one of the sponsors of the TEDx Shahre Naw Youth—an independently organized TED event in Afghanistan.