Profile
Omara Khan Massoudi is a museum director based in Afghanistan. He is known for his role in protecting and preserving Afghanistan's cultural heritage, especially during periods of extreme turmoil. Massoudi's journey in cultural preservation began in 1978 when he joined the National Museum of Afghanistan in Kabul, later becoming its deputy director in 1998. His leadership and foresight were crucial during the civil unrest and Taliban regime when he orchestrated the safekeeping of invaluable artifacts, including the world-famous Bactrian treasure. Despite enormous risks, Massoudi and his team managed to save a significant portion of the museum's collection by concealing it in secret vaults underneath Kabul.After the Taliban's fall, Massoudi was appointed as the museum's director, where he undertook the monumental task of rebuilding the institution. His efforts led to the recovery and restoration of hidden collections, the return of smuggled treasures, and the re-establishment of the museum as a central cultural institution in Afghanistan. Massoudi's work extends beyond the museum's walls; he has been instrumental in promoting Afghan cultural preservation internationally, raising funds, and fostering global support through exhibitions.
