Migration & Leadership in Resettlement and Belonging
Following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, there was a significant increase in Afghan refugees arriving in the United States. The U.S. government initiative, Operation Allies Welcome, aimed to evacuate Afghan nationals who had assisted U.S. forces and were at risk under Taliban rule.
In 2022, I volunteered at Houston Welcomes Refugees, received extensive training, and became “Welcome Team Leader” to help Afghan refugee families to settle in Houston and find belonging. My journey began with welcoming refugee families from the airport when they landed in Houston. During the first few months, I helped the Afghan families find furniture, buy groceries, and assisted with their urgent needs, such as baby formula. I read books to their children to help with their anxiety, support them with language, social integration, and schooling. I organized initiatives such as the donation of toys and books, a picnic in the park, etc.
Inspired by service with refugee families, I created a podcast channel featuring diverse perspectives of guests including refugees, immigrants, and experts, on migration and displacement, exploring social impact, policy, and assimilation. I aim to create awareness and sensitivity in the general population regarding the challenges faced by migrants to produce a more welcoming and tolerant environment for these new members of our community.
