Giving Compass' Take:

• Zein Basravi reports that restrictive laws enacted after the 1979 revolution make it difficult for Iran's youth to raise their voices and find their way. 

• How can funders work to ensure that young people everywhere get the opportunity to make their way in the world? 

• Learn how mobile apps are shaping civil society in Iran. 

Frank Sinatra's performance of the 1944 song I Fall in Love to Easily made it an American jazz standard.

In a dimly lit studio in downtown Tehran 75 years later, Azin Elahi sings it is an act of youthful rebellion.

The 19-year-old dreams of a career as a vocalist on the big stage. But in Iran, where the sound of a solo female singing voice violates strict Islamic codes of conduct governing public life, stealing moments of freedom in private spaces and behind closed doors may be the closest she gets.

"For a female vocalist in Iran, it is not just about [a woman singing in public] being illegal. The society doesn't recognize you," said Elahi.

"My entire life, I wanted to sing. It's like breathing for me. I can't do anything else. But as a [professional] or an artist, you are not recognized, especially if you want to sing."

The social stigma attached to the public act of singing, being a woman, can be as insurmountable an obstacle as the country's Islamic laws, she added.

"We have so many talents here. The thing I want to say in the end is if you feel it in your heart, go for it and don't let anyone or any religion or anything push you away."

Despite her ambition, Elahi and her four bandmates acknowledge that American jazz does not fit the public image in Iran, and realizing their musical dreams may mean leaving home.

Read the full article about the youth of Iran by Zein Basravi at Al Jazeera.