The election is just one step forward—but a meaningful one It shows that even far from their homeland, communities like the Hazaras are finding their voice, shaping their future, and writing a new story—together, with hope.
Housing availability varies— sometimes there are many options, and other times it is difficult to find a suitable home. Without a signed lease, payment, and deposit, it is not possible to secure keys.
His life and music have taken him around the world from India and Iran to the former Soviet Union, North America, and Europe. In 2024, he performed in both Turkey and India, continuing to share his artistry well into his later years
WashU has a safe and beautiful campus with libraries, student centers, and quiet places to relax or study It is located in St Louis. Many refugees and international students live in the area, so you will not feel alone
AFGHAN SUPPORT PROGRAM
Welcome to The Afghan Journal, a publication of the Afghan Support Program at the International Institute of St. Louis.
The Afghan Journal is a monthly publication rooted in the heart of St Louis, Missouri, and created as part of the Afghan Support Program at the International Institute of St Louis This journal was established to serve as a trusted platform for stories, voices, and experiences that reflect the Afghan journey past, present, and future. In every issue, we aim to capture the resilience, culture, and dreams of Afghans as they build new lives while staying connected to their heritage.
The Afghan Support Program is dedicated to helping Afghans thrive in their new home. Through access to housing support, job placement services, small business grants, legal guidance, healthcare enrollment, and more, the program offers critical resources to support families during resettlement and beyond. It also focuses on preserving culture and community through educational classes in Pashto, Dari, and Quran studies for children, as well as sewing and vocational opportunities for women. Soccer teams, driving classes, and support with school enrollment are just a few of the ways the program strengthens everyday life.
Importantly, this initiative has also supported the development of key institutions such as the Afghan Community Center and the U S -Afghan Chamber of Commerce spaces where Afghan identity, enterprise, and unity are nurtured Thanks to the collective effort of the Afghan community itself, St. Louis is now home to Masjid Abu Bakr Sediq a proud symbol of faith and self-determination.
The Afghan Journal is published in English, Pashto, and Dari, in print and online. It exists to empower, inform, and inspire. This is your voice, your reflection, and your community. Sign up to receive future issues by scanning the QR code or visiting AfghanCenter.org.
“Together, we are not just rebuilding lives we are building a thriving community, rooted in dignity, culture, and collective strength.” Hamdullah Hamdard, Director of Afghan Support Program
On a sunny afternoon in late May, the American Czech Center in St. Louis buzzed with energy and anticipation. Members of the Hazara community young and old, newcomers and longtime residents gathered not just for an election, but for a moment that felt like history in the making.
After weeks of conversations, campaign chats, and community planning, two candidates stood ready to lead: Mr. Jawad Rahimi and Mr. Aziz Ahmad Ahmadi Both had shared their visions with the community Both had walked side-byside with their supporters And both knew that this was more than a vote it was about guiding a growing community into its next phase of life in a new land.
A total of 129 people showed up. They laughed, debated, and listened then cast their votes. The final count: 69 votes for Mr. Ahmadi, 59 for Mr. Rahimi. A close result, but also a powerful show of unity. The process was respectful, transparent, and full of heart an example of democracy at work within a tight-knit immigrant community.
For Mr. Ahmadi, the road ahead is full of promise and responsibility. The Hazara Community STL isn’t just an organization; it’s a support system for hundreds of families trying to build new lives in America From helping new arrivals find their first apartments, to connecting people with jobs, to organizing cultural and sports events, the community plays a vital role in day-to-day life.
It’s also a place for healing and hope. Many of its members have experienced displacement, uncertainty, and the challenge of starting over.
But in St. Louis, they’re planting roots running small businesses, buying homes, sending their kids to school, and joining hands with other communities across the city.
Under its new leadership, the Hazara Community STL will continue to operate through several dedicated committees focused on everything from culture and communication to finance and event planning These teams make sure that needs are heard and ideas become action.
But perhaps the biggest success of this election wasn’t who won it was how it brought people together. The process sparked conversation, trust, and civic engagement, especially among younger generations eager to contribute.
St. Louis has become a unique kind of home for many Afghan families. Here, they’ve found both challenges and opportunities. They’ve built restaurants, launched car dealerships, entered tech fields, and formed bonds with neighbors from all walks of life.
The election of Aziz Ahmad Ahmadi is just one step forward but a meaningful one It shows that even far from their homeland, communities like the Hazaras are finding their voice, shaping their future, and writing a new story together, with hope.
Hazara CommunitySt. LouisVoted for its New Leadership
For many Afghan families who have recently made St. Louis their new home, Bausch + Lomb has become more than just a workplace—it’s a place of opportunity, belonging, and hope.
When Mohammad, a recent Afghan arrival, applied for a job at Bausch + Lomb, he didn’t know what to expect The hiring process took eight months, but he remained hopeful
And when he finally received the call offering him a position, it felt like the beginning of something good not just for him, but for his whole family.
Bausch + Lomb, a company that began as a small optical shop in 1853 in Rochester, New York, has grown into a global leader in eye health. But what’s truly remarkable is how this historic company has become a welcoming and supportive space for refugees—especially Afghans in St. Louis today.
From day one, Ahmad noticed something different New employees are welcomed with two weeks of thorough training, and for those still learning English, translators are there to help. No one is left behind.
The training covers workplace rules, safety, and job duties, and concludes with a test that everyone is prepared to take.
Bausch + Lomb is known for taking care of its employees. Workers receive regular weekly time off, and over time, that grows—giving staff more for rest and family life.
If someone gets sick, the company continues to pay 80% of their salary until they’re able to return
For couples expecting a child, both parents are given two months of paid leave, a rare and generous policy that brings peace of mind to growing families.
Every employee also receives free eye protection tools just one example of the company's focus on safety and care Beyond that, there are always supervisors, and team leads available to answer questions, offer guidance, and help each person feel part of the team.
The workplace environment is welcoming, diverse, and full of shared goals. Many employees are refugees, and a large number of them are Afghan and Bosnian men and women.
They bring strong work ethics, positivity, and a deep desire to contribute to their new home.
Across St. Louis, Afghans are quietly helping build the city’s economy working in industries like manufacturing, tech, housing, designing, restaurants and more
Their presence at companies like Bausch + Lomb is not only meaningful for them personally, but for the entire community.
Bausch + Lomb proves that when companies open their doors with compassion and fairness, everyone benefits.
For many Afghan families, this workplace has become a stepping stone toward a brighter future—filled with purpose, pride, and possibility.
Bausch + Lomb: A Bright OpportunityforAfghan Workers in St. Louis
Public libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are welcoming community centers that offer many free services to help people of all ages If English is your second language, you will find that libraries are great places to learn, connect, and grow Here are some of the helpful things public libraries offer. Many libraries offer job search support. This includes resume writing workshops, interview practice, and help with filling out online applications. You can also find books and guides about career choices. Some libraries even have staff or volunteers who give one-on-one help to job seekers.
Libraries often have programs for children, teens, and adults. These can include story time for kids, craft classes, movie nights, book clubs, and language learning groups. These events are usually free and give people a chance to learn something new and meet others in the community
If you are a student or need information for a report, libraries give access to research databases. These are trusted online resources that are not always free on the internet. You can use them to find articles, newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. This is one of the main services of the library. You can borrow books for free with a library card. Most libraries also lend DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, and even board games or musical instruments.
Many libraries also offer books in different languages for people from many backgrounds.
Public libraries have computers that anyone can use You can search the internet, write documents, and check emails Free Wi-Fi is also available, so you can bring your own device. This is helpful for people who do not have internet at home.
Librarians are trained to help you find information. If you do not know how to search for something, just ask. They can help you find books, explain how to use the computer, and show you how to access online tools. Many libraries also offer this help online through chat or email.
Most libraries offer free digital tools. You can borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and even stream movies and music online. Some libraries also have learning apps for languages, school subjects, and test preparation You just need a library card to access them
Many Afghan families live close to a public library but may not know it. Check the map to find the nearest one. Public libraries are free and open to everyone. They offer much more than just books. From job help to digital tools, libraries are great places for learning, connecting, and growing.
Visit your local library and discover what it can do for you!
Nashenas:TheVoiceof a Nation in Exile
Dr. Sadiq Fitrat Nashenas – widely known as Nashenas – was born on January 28, 1935, into a spiritual and culturally rooted family in Kandahar, Afghanistan. His father, Mohammad Rafeeq, was a well-educated man fluent in Arabic and English, who served in the country’s training and economic sectors
Nashenas’s early life in Kandahar was marked by simplicity and familial warmth, especially the deep care of his mother. Tragedy also touched the family early on, as three of his four sisters passed away in childhood. He began his schooling at Shalimar School in Kandahar, but the family relocated to Karachi in the early 1940s when his father was appointed to the National Bank under British India. There, Nashenas learned Urdu and grew up in a culturally diverse environment. His life took a dramatic turn in 1990 when, due to the changing political climate, Nashenas and his family fled Afghanistan via Jalalabad and resettled in Islamabad, Pakistan Already a household name in Afghan music, he drew attention from all quarters including Pakistani media and government but chose to stay away from politics and focused solely on his music.
Even his renditions of classic pieces often bear his personal musical touches, reflecting a unique style that blends traditional Afghan music with emotional depth.
In 1991, the UK granted him asylum, and he moved to London with his family. From there, Nashenas expanded his artistic horizons, performing concerts across Europe, Australia, the United States, and beyond. Despite the hardships of exile, he remained deeply connected to Afghan culture and dedicated himself to keeping it alive through his music.
Now retired and living in London, Dr. Nashenas continues to compose, record, and mentor young musicians His deep baritone and poetic lyrics sung in Pashto, Persian, and Urdu have left an indelible mark on generations. Out of the more than 450 songs attributed to him, over 270 are his own compositions.
His life and music have taken him around the world — from India and Iran to the former Soviet Union, North America, and Europe. Notably, in 2024, he performed in both Turkey and India, continuing to share his artistry well into his later years
Beyond music, Dr Nashenas has also contributed intellectually translating works between Persian, Pashto, Urdu, and Russian, including for Afghanistan’s Encyclopedia Aryana. He once dabbled in acting and radio drama, but his true love has always been music, inspired by legends like K. L. Saigal and enriched by friendships with Afghan music giants like Ustad Rahim Bakhsh and Ustad Breshna.
To this day, Nashenas remains a beloved figure — a quiet cultural ambassador whose life’s work continues to inspire Afghans and music lovers around the world.
More of his work can be found at: www nashenas org
Facts about Housing in St. Louis you Might not Know
Afghan Support Program attempts to assist Afghan families willing to relocate to St. Louis. But how? The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) helps find housing for new arrivals. Here we explore the process more deeply. Basically, there are two main sources for finding houses IISTL has expanded its network with landlords and property management companies to assist with renting homes for new arrivals. It is much easier for housing officer to communicate and coordinate with private landlords due to their accessibility. Some require a good credit score, employment, and a lease agreement. Meanwhile, there are other private landlords who do not require income verification, credit checks, or even a formal lease. These landlords simply want monthly rent payments. However, the downside is that tenants can be asked to leave at any time without notice, coordination, or legal protection. Also, tenants leave at any time without formal and advance coordination with landlords These companies manage groups of homes or apartments and have more specific and extensive requirements. These typically include a credit check, application and fees (ranging from $50 to $150), a driver’s license and Social Security number, proof of income (usually 2 to 3 times the monthly rent). If an applicant does not meet one of these criteria, their application may be rejected. Good references are also important. Some companies contact previous landlords to learn more about the applicant.
An application can be denied due to poor behavior with a past landlord or neighbors. Social behavior and community interaction play a key role in whether a housing application is approved or rejected.
Based on experiences at the International Institute of St Louis, houses with three or four bedrooms are a better match for Afghan families due to their sizes. One-bedroom homes are rarely suitable for our community families except the client is single or any other condition. On-time rent payments are essential, and landlords always expect rent before the due date. Sometimes, the housing officer is able to waive the application fee, but this requires another eligible person to act as a co-signer. IISTL staff cannot co-sign leases, but the Institute facilitates coordination between landlords and tenants. Lease agreements are typically for six months to one year and may be extended if both landlord and tenant agree
Housing availability varies sometimes there are many options, and other times it is difficult to find a suitable home. Without a signed lease, payment, and deposit, it is not possible to secure keys. However, based on the Institute’s strong relationships with landlords, housing officers may be able to obtain keys for showings or share photos of the property in advance with our clients.
Abdul Wahid Noori Housing Manager
International Institute of St. Louis
Finding Your Future at Washington University in St. Louis
If you recently arrived in the United States and want to study or improve your skills, Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) can be a great place to begin WashU is a respected university located in St Louis, Missouri It welcomes students from many countries, including people who have faced war, hardship, or displacement. At WashU, you can find many opportunities to learn, grow, and build a better future.
WashU offers many programs, whether you are just starting college or want to earn a master’s or doctoral degree. The university has schools in areas like business, law, medicine, engineering, social work, and art. If you are not ready to join a full program, there are short courses and workshops where you can learn English, build new skills, or explore different subjects to find what you enjoy.
Starting school in a new country can feel confusing or stressful WashU has special services to help The Office for International Students and Scholars offers help with cultural adjustment, and academic support. There are orientation programs to explain life in the U.S., how the university works, and where to go when you need help. English language classes and tutoring are also available.
Going to school in the U.S. can be expensive, but WashU offers scholarships and financial aid for students who qualify. Some scholarships are based on your grades, and others are for students who have financial need.
New arrivals may also qualify for outside scholarships or special funding programs. There are also assistantships jobs at the university that help pay for your education while you gain experience
Education is not just about books. At WashU, you can join student clubs, attend workshops, volunteer in the community, or take part in internships. These activities help you improve your English, meet new people, and prepare for a good job in the future. The university’s career services can help you with job searching, writing a resume, and practicing for interviews.
WashU has a safe and beautiful campus with libraries, student centers, and quiet places to relax or study. It is located in St. Louis, a city with museums, parks, and many opportunities. Public transportation makes it easy to get around Many refugees and international students live in the area, so you will not feel alone.
Washington University in St. Louis is more than just a school. It is a welcoming place where refugees and newcomers can find support, hope, and opportunity. If you want to continue your education, build your skills, and start a new life, WashU can help guide you on your path.
For more information, visit washu.edu.
Uruzgan Province
Uruzgan Province is in the central part of Afghanistan. It has about 436,000 people. Most of them are Durrani Pashtuns, and there is also a Hazara minority The province is 12,640 square kilometers in size It has five districts: Shahid-e Hassas, Jawarah, Khas Oruzgan, Tarinkot, and Dihrawud. The capital city is Tarinkot. There is an airport in Tarinkot with flights to other cities in Afghanistan.
The land in Uruzgan is mostly mountains (47%) and hills (31%). Only 21% of the land is flat. The main road, the Kandahar-Uruzgan highway, goes through Chora and Tarinkot districts. A new road project worth $21 million is building more roads to help people travel more easily.
Farming is the most important job in Uruzgan. People grow crops like poppy, wheat, corn, flax, and rapeseed. They also raise animals like chickens, cows, sheep, goats, and donkeys Farming and animal care brings in more money than other jobs Families in Uruzgan often earn just enough to meet their needs, and they have less debt than people in other parts of the country.
Education in Uruzgan is limited. Only 5% of people can read and write. There are 125 schools, but most are for boys. Only 13 schools accept girls. There is one agricultural high school that teaches farming skills. Health care is also a problem. There are only three hospitals and three clinics in the whole province.
There are 553 pharmacies, but many people do not go to health centers. The most common reasons are no female doctors, clinics are too far, and poor service
Getting clean water is hard in Uruzgan Only 8 to 9% of homes have safe drinking water. Most water for farming comes from rivers like the Helmand or from wells and old underground systems called karezes.
Electricity is another big issue. Uruzgan has no public electricity in any district. People use solar panels in their homes. About 96% of homes use solar energy for lights and charging phones. For heating, most families use wood, charcoal, animal waste, or gas. These create air pollution in homes.
Still, there is hope. More children go to school near Tarinkot than in other areas. The main reasons for not going to school are schools are far away, children are too young, and not enough female teachers
Even with these problems, the people of Uruzgan are strong and trying to make their lives better. They use solar power, build new roads, and work hard on farms. These steps show that the people of Uruzgan are hopeful and working to improve their future.
Growing up in America is full of new experiences. You go to school, make friends, learn new things, and dream about your future. It’s an exciting place with lots of opportunities. But while you’re busy chasing your dreams, it’s important to remember one of the biggest reasons you even have those opportunities, your parents
Your parents might not speak English perfectly or know every new trend. They may not always understand how things work here like you do. But what they do have is something priceless, their love, their hard work, and their experience. They’ve made many sacrifices to give you a chance at a better life.
Think about this: your parents left behind their homes, their friends, and sometimes even their families to come to a new country. They faced challenges like learning a new language, finding jobs, and adjusting to a culture that is very different from the one they grew up in. All this was done because they wanted the best for you
When your mom or dad gives you advice, like to work hard in school, be kind to others, or stay humble, they share lessons they learned from their own lives. Their advice might sound simple or old-fashioned, but it comes from a place of experience and love. They want to protect you from mistakes and help you become a strong, respectful person.
Respecting your parents isn’t just about following rules. It means listening to them, understanding their feelings, and appreciating all they’ve done for you. Even when you don’t agree with everything they say, try to remember that they care deeply and want what’s best for you.
One way to show respect is by helping them with small things at home, like chores, cooking, or running errands These simple acts show that you recognize their hard work and want to support them. Sometimes, parents work long hours and get tired. Your kindness can make their day easier.
Also, be patient with your parents. They might not know all the new words or understand all the technology you use.
Instead of getting frustrated, try to teach them gently or help explain things. This not only makes their life better but also brings your family closer.
Another important value is gratitude and being thankful. Saying “thank you” to your parents for what they do, even the little things, goes a long way. It reminds them that their sacrifices don’t go unnoticed
Remember, they may not always say how hard it was for them, but every step they took was for your future.
As you grow older, keep in mind that your parents are human too. They have their own fears and worries, just like you do. They want to see you happy and successful, but sometimes they show it in their own way. Try to understand them and share your feelings with them too. Building a strong, honest relationship with your parents will help your family stay close no matter what.
Finally, be proud of your parents and their journey. They are your first teachers, your protectors, and your biggest supporters. Their sacrifices are the reason you have a chance to learn, grow, and dream bigger So, love your parents, respect them, listen to them, and always remember: the life you have is built on the foundation they worked so hard to create. You are their greatest gift, and they are yours.
Hamdullah Hamdard
Helping your child become a good reader is very important Reading helps children learn and grow. You do not need to be a teacher to help your children. Just spending time together every day with fun activities can help a lot. Here are some easy ways to help your child enjoy reading and get better at it.
Read books with your child every day. It can be just a few minutes. Find books with nice pictures and stories that your child likes. If your child wants to read the same book many times, that is okay.
You can also try picture books with no words. Ask your child to tell the story using the pictures This helps with imagination and language
Before reading a new book, look at the pictures first. Ask your child what they think the story will be about. Also, ask questions like "What is happening in this picture?" This helps your child talk more and think about the story.
Look for letters and numbers around you, like on signs or food boxes. Ask your child to find letters they know. This helps them learn in a fun way. Singing helps children hear the sounds in words. Sing songs and nursery rhymes with your child. You can even make silly songs together.
EasyStrategiesto HelpYourChild Become a Reader
Ask your child to make animal sounds or pretend to be a robot or dinosaur. Clap your hands with each sound in a word. For example: Monkey (clap, clap). This helps children learn how words are made.
Playing is also a way to learn When children play, they can create their own stories Play with puppets, blocks, or even boxes You can build together and talk about what you are doing. Play games like “follow the leader” and let each family member take turns.
Talking with your child helps build vocabulary. Children should know 3,000–5,000 words by the time they start school. Talk to your child about everyday things like cooking, shopping, or fixing things.
Ask them to talk about their drawings. This helps your child learn new words and express their thoughts.
Writing starts with scribbles Let your child use crayons or pencils to draw and write Show them how letters look You can also write in the sand or use sidewalk chalk. Put pudding or shaving cream in a bag and let your child draw letters on it.
You can make play dough and shape it into letters too. These activities help children get ready to write.
Helping your child become a good reader is easy and fun. You do not need to be perfect. Just read, sing, play, talk, and write with your child. These simple things will help your child love learning and become a great reader.
Show Me Partners
Show Me Partners is an exclusive high-level networking group based in the Greater St. Louis area, built for professionals and business owners who are serious about growth. Every member brings unique strengths and expertise, and together, the group collaborates to promote one another, share referrals, and create new opportunities.
The goal of Show Me Partners is to help its members increase visibility, build meaningful business relationships, and drive real revenue growth, while maintaining a commitment to delivering world-class service to every client referred to through the group This is not a casual meet-and-greet; it's a focused, results-driven community of trusted professionals who support one another’s success.
Best of all, membership is completely free of charge. There are no dues, fees, or hidden costs, just real people helping each other grow. If you're looking to generate more business, expand your network, or learn more about what makes this group different, we invite you to connect with us. Show Me Partners is where professional relationships become powerful partnerships. Learn more on our website.
To advertise on this page or in other parts of the journal, or if you would like to share your story, a piece of writing about your community, lessons learned, and more, please contact us at sayedis@iistl.org
