A young volunteer on the front lines of polio prevention
Kunar, Afghanistan – The morning light has not yet fully spread as 24-year-old Rezaullah, a resident of Chawkay district in Kunar province, picks up his small vaccine carrier and sets out for the day.
During polio vaccination campaign days, he moves from site to site with his team to ensure children receive the vaccine.
This is the path Rezaullah chose after graduating from high school, a path that, in his view, benefits not only himself but also the community.
He decided to dedicate his time and energy to children’s health. For the past six years, he has worked as a vaccinator; six years of commitment, continuous effort, and long journeys.
“From the very first day,” Rezaullah says, “I knew that saving the life of every child brings happiness to a family. If children are healthy, the whole community will be healthy and prosperous.”
More than a job, a responsibility
For Rezaullah, administering vaccines is not just a job; he sees it as a responsibility to his community.
He says the greatest joy is the moment when a child’s future is safeguarded.
This work is not easy. Long journeys and tough conditions are a normal part of this service, but none of these weaken his commitment and determination; instead, they give him even greater motivation.
Rezaullah says, “The journey is hard, but the end result is worth it: a healthy child.”
Rezaullah vaccinates a child during a polio vaccination campaign © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2026
Slow but steady steps toward change
Today, in many villages of Chawkay district, Rezaullah’s name is associated with trust. Children recognize him, mothers feel confident in him, and fathers respect him. When the vaccination team moves from site to site, many families are already prepared and bring their children for vaccination.
This trust has not been built in a single day; it is the result of six years of continuous effort, patience, and sincerity. Rezaullah does not stop at just administering vaccines; he sits with family elders, talks about disease prevention and hygiene, and explains the importance of vaccination. He often reminds them, “Prevention is easier than treatment.”
These sustained efforts have gradually brought about change; families understand the importance of vaccination and regularly vaccinate their children, reducing the risk of disease transmission compared to the past.
Rezaullah says, “Each small effort can be the beginning of a profound change. If we all do our part, one day polio will disappear from the country forever.”
The value of a smile
Rezaullah does not seek recognition, but the smiles on the faces of children show the impact of his work. He quietly continues his service without expecting praise.
For him, the greatest achievement is the moment when a healthy child runs freely, and a family doesn’t have to worry anymore.
Rezaullah’s story is a reminder that preventing major threats begins with ordinary but dedicated individuals – people who work with patience and sincerity.
Through the efforts of young people like Rezaullah and the support of their communities, every child can remain protected and have a healthy future.
