I'm Zahra, from Afghanistan. My journey to the U.S. began in 2021 when I left my home country. I spent nine months in a refugee camp in Abu Dhabi before finally arriving in September 2022 to Minnesota, where my younger brother had been living since 2016. Initially, I stayed in a temporary home before moving to Minneapolis to work at the Afghan Cultural Society.
When I first arrived in America, everything was new and culturally different. It was my first time living by myself, and the transition was challenging. Everyday tasks like grocery shopping and using transportation were overwhelming. I didn't know anyone except my brother, which made it even harder. However, I gradually learned from him and others in the community and adapted over time.
One of the toughest challenges was dealing with cultural differences and learning to navigate a new environment. Everything from using Google Maps to understanding the transportation system was new. I faced the challenge of living alone for the first time, but step by step, with the help of my brother and other community members, I found my place. Getting involved with the Afghan Cultural Society and helping other Afghan women was a significant part of this process.
I have encountered misconceptions related to my accent and being Muslim. People sometimes have difficulty understanding my English because of my accent. Additionally, there can be preconceived notions about how I might behave because of my cultural background. To address these misconceptions, I continuously work on my communication skills and build connections within the community.
Success, for me, is about feeling good in life, having a sense of accomplishment and helping others. What motivates me is seeing the positive impact of my work, especially when Afghan women tell me that the programs I run have helped them. This feedback gives me energy and inspires me to continue making a difference.
One of my proudest achievements is working as a women's mental health program leader at the Afghan Cultural Society. We offer various activities like yoga, sewing and swimming classes, as well as mental health coaching to help Afghan women cope with stress and adapt to their new environment. I also volunteer at the Watercourse Counseling Center assisting refugees with their mental health needs.
My long-term goal is to continue my education in psychology or social work to serve the refugee community better. I want to use my skills to help others who have experienced trauma and need support in adapting to their new lives.
My advice to other refugees is to build a community and seek help from those who arrived before you. It's important to create a safe and trusting environment. Learn from the experiences of other refugee communities, such as the Somali community in Minnesota, which has successfully navigated similar challenges. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and offer support to others in similar situations.
