Rabia Nasimi was just five years old when she arrived in Dover in the back of a refrigerated lorry with her baby brother, frightened older sister and parents.

Her family fled Afghanistan after her academic father became a Taliban target for believing women deserved equal right to an education.

Rabia, now 25, has defied the Taliban's repressive beliefs and is currently studying for a PHD in Cambridge.

Her memories of escaping Afghanistan are hazy, but one image that stands out is when she arrived in Dover and was given a marshmallow as UK Border officials spoke to her parents.

"I had never had one before," Rabia laughed. "The next time I was in the shop I said 'oh my god that’s what I had'.

"That’s my main memory from that time."

Her family happily settled in New Cross and her father set up the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) – a charity empowering refugees.

Rabia now supports the Women’s Project at the ACAA and estimates that her family help around 2,000 people yearly who were forced to flee their homelands.

READ ALSO: St Mary Cray pensioner to leave UK because of Brexit hostility

The inspiring woman said every individual’s situation differed, but said she suffered no discrimination in Lewisham growing up.

She described the borough as "diverse and interesting" and said her family had prospered from living in the UK.

"We have felt well received here," she said. "You have to put hard work in but if you push yourself things will start to show.

"Refugees who come at an older age like parents will find it harder to settle in the first few years. It is easier for children who get that extra exposure.

"It has generally been positive for us."

Each Saturday the Women’s Project welcomes refugees from all backgrounds to come together.

News Shopper:

The first hour and a half English lessons are held and the final period hosts workshops where special guests can include teachers, doctors or motivational speakers.

The ACAA originated in Lewisham but has now expanded into Hounslow to support the large Afghan population there.

The sociology student said one of her favourite things about Lewisham is Goldsmiths University where she did an undergraduate.

"I have good memories there," she said. "It was my first full exposure to university life. I feel quite safe in Lewisham and it’s a homely environment, despite what the news may cover."

Rabia, whose family remains in New Cross, is continuing to balance work with studying for her PHD and is as committed as ever to inspiring women across London.