One of Shafiq’s recent songs "Kindness" shares a message of peace, unity, and kindness. He uses three languages, Uzbek, Pashto and Farsi to ask
Badghis is a province in northwestern Afghanistan. The name "Badghis" means "home of the winds". This is i
Zahra’s advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is practical and heartfelt: know your strengths, understand your finances, ffi i ll gi t b i
Round 8 of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant will be announced soon. Follow AfghanSupportProgram on F b k d I t g t t
3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 7
New Paths, Big Dreams: Meet Winners of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant
Starting a Business in St. Louis: The Journey of Zahra Mosawi, Afghan Woman Entrepreneur 6. Shafiq Mureed: A Voice of Music, Peace, and Hope 7. Housing Tips for Afghans Living in St. Louis
Unforgettable Experiences at St. Louis Union Station
Badghis Province
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
True Manufacturing is a private company that makes and distributes refrigeration products. They produce a wide variety of items such as food prep tables, milk coolers, freezers, refrigerators, and more. Their products are used in restaurants, stores, and homes across the country. With around 3,000 employees, True is known for being a stable and growing workplace.
One of the reasons people enjoy working at True is the starting pay The company offers $20 00 per hour, which is a strong wage, especially for entry-level positions They also offer helpful benefits and flexible working hours. Employees can choose between several shifts: a 4-day, 10hour shift; and even a weekend shift (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 12 hours each). There are also night shifts for those who prefer to work in the evening or have family responsibilities during the day.
True tries to make the workplace comfortable for everyone, especially for people who do not speak English as their first language. During onboarding, translators are provided, and there are many tools available to help break language barriers. This support makes it easier for new employees to understand their job and feel confident from the beginning It also helps build a sense of teamwork and cooperation on the factory floor
The company is also known for being respectful of its employees’ religion and culture. Many Afghan workers have said they feel welcomed and valued at True. For example, the management allows for flexible break times so employees can take time to pray. Time off for important religious holidays is also respected. Even those who cannot read or write are still able to work and succeed at True, which shows how inclusive the company really is.
Haroon Mangal, an employee at True, said that the benefits are good and the managers are flexible “If you need time off, they usually approve it,” he shared. This kind of support is important, especially for people who are adjusting to life in a new country and balancing work with family needs. It helps workers feel seen and supported.
Another reason people like working at True is how quickly the company responds to problems. If something goes wrong, managers take action right away. This makes employees feel safe and respected. They know their voices matter and their concerns are taken seriously. In summary, True Manufacturing offers more than just a job. It provides good pay, flexible hours, helpful benefits, and a supportive work environment For many, especially in the Afghan community, it has become a trusted and welcoming place to build a future and feel at home.
New Paths, Big Dreams: Meet WinnersoftheAfghan EntrepreneurshipGrant
For many Afghan newcomers, starting over in the United States has meant learning a new language, navigating new systems, and rebuilding careers from scratch Yet amid these challenges, Afghan entrepreneurs in St Louis are proving that dreams can not only survive but thrive even far from home Two such inspiring figures are Mohammad Kaihan Noorzad and Negina Shinwari, recent winners of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant.
At just 22 years old, Mohammad Kaihan Noorzad has already charted a bold course for his future. Originally from Afghanistan, he arrived in the U S in 2021 after the fall of Kabul and settled in St Louis, determined to build a better life Over the past three years, Mohammad has worked in an auto body shop, honing the skills he first learned back in Afghanistan. But he didn’t stop there. “I brought the skills I had learned in Afghanistan and improved them here in the United States,” Mohammad explains. Fueled by ambition, he took the leap to register his own business as an LLC and now works for himself.
This June, his hard work was recognized when he received the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant. He credits his success to having both a solid business plan and hands-on experience. “I believe I was awarded the grant for two main reasons. First, my business idea and plan were strong and clear Second, I had real hands-on experience in auto repair,” he shares Mohammad’s dream is to expand into a larger auto body shop one that includes a mechanical shop, tire services, and bodywork. He hopes to grow his business into a company that employs 40 to 45 people, creating jobs and offering training for others in his community.
Negina Shinwari’s journey is equally inspiring but follows a different path. Back in Afghanistan, she was a medical student passionate about helping others After arriving in St Louis as a refugee, she found herself starting over completely.
Determined not to give up her dreams, Negina launched a small business offering affordable, high-quality South Asian clothing. “Many Afghan families want to stay connected to their culture, and clothing is an important part of that,” she explains. She also hopes to empower Afghan women by training and hiring housewives for stitching and tailoring work, building a business “by women, for women.” Winning the 7th round of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant validated her vision. Her proposal highlighted both cultural preservation and women’s empowerment a powerful combination
Looking ahead, Negina hopes to open a physical store, expand her clothing line, and eventually complete her medical degree, all while continuing to uplift her community. These young entrepreneurs remind us that while starting over is never easy, resilience, vision, and hard work can turn even the biggest challenges into new beginnings.
Feeling inspired?
Round 8 of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant will be announced soon. Follow AfghanSupportProgram on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated and learn how you might start your own journey
When Zahra Mosawi arrived in St. Louis, she carried more than just suitcases. She carried dreams dreams of building a new life, contributing to her community, and carving out her own path as a businesswoman
Like many newcomers, Zahra faced uncertainty and the challenge of figuring out where to start. She heard about the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant, an initiative meant to help Afghan immigrants and refugees start businesses. Full of hope, she applied but wasn’t selected. Instead of letting disappointment hold her back, Zahra used it as fuel. “Even though I was not accepted, the grant gave me motivation,” she says.
Determined to keep going, Zahra launched Silk Road Boutique, an online shop featuring clothing and accessories inspired by Afghan and global fashion. Not long after, she tried again for the grant—and this time, she became one of the winners. The recognition and support were more than financial; it was a sign she was moving in the right direction
Education has played a big role in Zahra’s journey. She’s currently working toward a business certificate at Washington University in St. Louis through the EMPOWER program. “This program teaches me business administration, marketing, and other important theories which help manage business more effectively,” she explains. It’s knowledge she’s putting to use every day as her business grows.
Zahra’s business now operates mainly online, but she’s discovered that success doesn’t just come from selling products it comes from connecting with people She’s found TikTok to be the best place to share her brand’s story, showcase her products, and engage with customers. “TikTok is a great place for entertaining, marketing, and selling at the same time,” she says. Looking ahead, Zahra is working hard to open a physical store something that’s been her dream from the very beginning.
Behind Zahra’s determination stands a strong network of support. Her family, especially her husband, has been deeply involved, helping her build Silk Road Boutique from the ground up. “If your family does not support you, it can be very hard,” she admits.
Zahra’s advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is practical and heartfelt: know your strengths, understand your finances, officially register your business, and always have a backup plan Above all, she believes persistence is key. “We should never give up. If something fails, we can always start again and rebrand,” she says.
Zahra Mosawi’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and hope a reminder that with courage and support, new beginnings are always possible.
Shafiq Mureed: AVoiceof Music, Peace, and Hope
Shafiq Mureed is a well-known Afghan singer born in Kabul. His family is originally from Laghman province. From a young age, Shafiq loved music. He was inspired by the famous Afghan artist Nazir Khara, who taught him music for a short time. Shafiq’s early song "Bewafa" made him popular, and his second song "Dar Aan Nafas Ki Bimiram" helped him gain more fans. He sings in both Dari and Pashto and is loved by many people in Afghanistan.
Shafiq believes that a good song must have four strong parts: lyrics, composition, music, and vocals. If one of these is weak, the whole song will not be good. He focuses more on the quality of his music than the number of songs he releases.
His songs are full of feelings and passion, and he is known for his strong, emotional voice. One of his patriotic songs received a special award from the Ministry of Information and Culture, during the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. He was honored for his dedication to Afghan music, especially in the Pashto language. Shafiq is also talented in mixing different musical styles and often works with new singers.
Besides music, Shafiq cares about helping others. In 2007, he started a campaign for a green environment. He also supports children and students. He created a music video to promote environmental protection. In 2011, he moved to the United States and now lives in California with his wife, two sons, and a daughter
He started a shelter for orphans in Afghanistan called Rayan Children. The shelter helps more than 100 boys and girls who lived on the streets.
They now receive food, shelter, and care every day. Anyone can support this shelter by donating at https://www.rayanchildren.org.
Shafiq was deeply moved by the story of a Moroccan boy named Rayan who died after falling into a well. This story gave him the idea for Rayan Children. Shafiq himself lost hisfather in the war and worked as a child on the battlefield. Now, he wants to help children who suffer from war, drugs, and poverty.
At Rayan Children, children not only get a safe home but also emotional support and education. The shelter works to heal their trauma and give them hope. One of Shafiq’s recent songs "Kindness" shares a message of peace, unity, and kindness He uses three languages, Uzbek, Pashto, and Farsi, to ask all everyone in Afghanistan, particularly, elites of the society to stop fighting and choose peace instead.
Shafiq Mureed is more than a singer, he is a symbol of hope and lovefor his country.
HousingTipsforAfghans Living in St. Louis
Finding a home in St Louis can be both exciting and challenging for Afghan families. Many Afghans have high expectations when it comes to housing, but it's important to understand that the process in the U.S. is very different from Afghanistan. This article shares some key points to help families make better housing decisions in St. Louis.
First, when you find a house or apartment, whether it is from a landlord or a property management company, a lease agreement is always required. This is a legal contract that must be respected by both sides. In Afghanistan, people may handle housing matters more casually, but in the U.S., everything must follow rules and agreements Misunderstanding this can lead to conflicts and even legal problems
These days, finding housing in St. Louis has become more difficult than in the past. The number of available houses has decreased, and prices for groceries and utilities have gone up. Still, housing in St. Louis is considered more affordable compared to other states. Also, groceries in St. Louis, while more expensive than before, are still generally more affordable than in many other parts of the country. This helps families better manage their monthly expenses. However, families sometimes insist on getting houses that are not available or ask for things that are out of anyone's control. It's important to understand that "yes" means yes and "no" means no when it comes to housing matters Being realistic is very important
Another issue is family size Afghan families are usually larger, and it’s important to look for housing that matches the size of the family.
For a family of five or six, a house or apartment with at least two bedrooms is necessary. Many landlords have been kind and allowed big families to stay in smaller spaces, but this is not always appropriate or legal.
Before renting a house or apartment, do some research. Check the neighborhood online, ask friends or community members, and make sure it’s a safe and convenient area. Don’t focus only on the rent amount. Think about other costs like electricity, gas, water, garbage, internet, and phone service These monthly bills can affect your budget
Sometimes it may take two or three months to find a house that meets all your needs. Be patient and stay in contact with people who can help.
Lastly, experience shows that Afghan families with more education usually have fewer problems with housing. After settling in, it’s also important to find work so you can pay your bills and live comfortably.
Understanding the housing system in the U.S. can help Afghan families feel more at home in St. Louis and avoid unnecessary stress.
Abdul Wahid Noori, Housing Manager, International Institute of St Louis
Unforgettable Experiences at St. Louis Union Station
St. Louis Union Station is one of the most exciting places to visit in the city. Whether you are a child, teenager, adult, or grandparent, there is something fun for everyone. I visited Union Station last week, and it was a wonderful experience. From babies to older adults, many people were enjoying their time there. When you enter Union Station, you need to buy a ticket to explore the attractions One of the most interesting places is the St Louis Aquarium It feels like you are going under the sea. You can see many sea animals up close, including fish and even sharks. It is a great place to learn and have fun, especially for children.
Another popular attraction is the St. Louis Wheel. This is a large Ferris wheel that takes you 200 feet above the ground. The gondolas are closed and comfortable in all seasons. You can see the beautiful view of the city from the top.
There is also the Selfie Express, a fun trainthemed walk-through area. Families can take creative photos in 10 different spaces with cool backgrounds and illusions It is very fun and makes great memories For those who enjoy challenges, the Mirror Maze is a great place to visit. It is full of mirrors and surprises.
You need to find your way out while also learning about the 1904 World’s Fair. It is exciting and a little tricky, but very enjoyable. If you like physical activities, try the Ropes Course. It is three stories high and has more than 30 different obstacles. Even small children can join in on the Sky Tykes course, which is safe and fun.
The Mini Golf area is perfect for some friendly competition It has 18 holes and is fun for both beginners and experts After that, take a break and ride the classic Carousel. It is a simple amusement ride that brings back childhood memories.
One of the most beautiful parts of Union Station is the Grand Hall Light Show. You can sit and watch amazing lights and animations move across the 65-foot ceiling. It happens every hour and includes sea animals, fireworks, and other colorful scenes.
If you have not visited St. Louis Union Station yet, you should go with your family and friends. There is something for everyone and it will be a day to remember!
Source:
https://www stlouisunionstation com/explore
Badghis Province
Badghis is a province in northwestern Afghanistan. It borders the provinces of Herat, Ghor, and Faryab, and also the country of Turkmenistan The name "Badghis" means "home of the winds" in Persian and Pashto. This is because strong winds often blow into the area from the north.
The land in Badghis is beautiful but hard to reach. There are many mountains, and two important rivers: the Murghab in the north and the Hari-Rud in the south. Badghis is one of the least developed provinces in Afghanistan The main city is Qalay-i-Naw This is where most government offices and services are found Most people in Badghis are farmers or animal herders. They grow pistachios, wheat, melons, maize, and barley. Badghis grows more pistachios than any other province in Afghanistan. People also raise goats, sheep, donkeys, and horses. Making carpets and other handmade crafts is also important for income. These crafts are often sold in markets or traded with neighbors.
The land is dry and depends on rainfall. When there is not enough rain, many families do not have enough food. Drought is a big problem. In the past, many people left Badghis and went to refugee camps because of hunger and lack of clean water adghis has seven districts: Jawand, Murghab, Ghormach, Qadis, Muqur, Qalay-i-Naw, and Ab Kamari. Most of the roads are not paved.
It is hard to travel, especially when it rains. A ring-road project was started by the republic government, but it has been delayed because of security issues and lack of funding.
Better roads could help people travel more easily and bring goods to markets.
Only about 9% of people in Badghis can read and write There are schools: 158 primary, 28 secondary, and 143 high schools There is also a vocational high school for farming and a midwife training center, but the center is now closed. More schools and trained teachers are needed to help improve education for children. Healthcare is limited. There is one hospital in Qalay-i-Naw and 15 small clinics in the province. Only 26% of people have clean drinking water. Many homes, especially in villages like Sanga Zard, are made of mud and are built near mountains, which can be dangerous in heavy rain or landslides.
There are no known mineral mines in Badghis, but it has natural resources like pistachio trees, plants used in medicine, fresh springs, and good land for animals to graze There is also small trade with Turkmenistan and some tourism potential due to its natural beauty Even with many challenges, Badghis is a place of beauty and strong culture.
Afghan clothes are colorful, beautiful, and full of tradition. Each piece shows a part of our culture and history. Every area of Afghanistan has its own style. This makes Afghan clothing special and rich in meaning.
Women in Afghanistan wear long dresses with bright colors. These dresses often have shiny mirrors and beautiful embroidery. They are called Afghani dresses. Women wear these dresses during weddings, parties, and holidays like Eid These dresses are not only beautiful but also show pride, culture, and history Many are handmade with great care Afghan men wear traditional clothes too. One common outfit is called the shalwar kameez. It includes a long shirt and loose pants. It is comfortable and easy to wear. Some men also wear a chapan, which is a warm coat. It is often colorful and made from thick fabric. On their heads, men may wear a turban or a soft hat called a pakol. These pieces are not only for style they are signs of culture and tradition.
Afghan clothes are not just about fashion. They show who we are. They tell the world where we come from.
Many Afghan clothes are made by hand. They take time and skill to make. The colors, designs, and shapes are full of meaning. They connect us to our past and our people.
Even when we move far away from Afghanistan, our clothes stay with us. Wearing traditional Afghanistan clothing helps us feel close to home. It reminds us of our families, our celebrations, and our traditions. It is a way to feel proud of our identity, even in a new country
In conclusion, Afghan traditional clothes are more than just something we wear. They are full of history, culture, and pride. Each piece of clothing tells a story. Whether it’s a colorful dress or a warm coat, it helps us remember who we are and where we come from. By wearing our traditional clothes, we keep our culture alive no matter where we live.
Bakht Meena Sulaimankhail,
11th Grade, Maplewood Richmond Heights High school
Start Coding with Confidence: What You Really Need
Many people today are interested in learning how to code. Coding means writing instructions that a computer can understand and follow. These instructions are written in special languages like Python, Java, or HTML. Some people may feel nervous about learning to code because they think they need to be very good with computers before they begin. However, this is not true. You do not need to be a computer expert to start learning coding. What is more important are your personal qualities, attitude, and motivation.
The good news is that no prior knowledge of coding is required. You do not need to know any programming languages or technical skills before you start Many people who become successful coders begin with no experience at all. They start from the beginning and learn step by step. Today, there are many helpful resources available, such as online courses, videos, and books that are designed for beginners. These tools make it easier to learn coding, even if you have never done it before.
One of the most important qualities to have when starting to learn coding is curiosity. This means having a strong desire to learn and understand new things. Curious people ask questions and try to discover how things work. When learning to code, you will often need to explore new ideas and solve problems. If you are curious, you will enjoy the process of learning and discovering Curiosity will help you stay interested and motivated, even when things get difficult.
Another very important quality is perseverance. Perseverance means not giving up, even when something is hard. Coding can be challenging, especially at the beginning. Sometimes you will make mistakes, and your code will not work the way you want it to. This is normal and part of the learning process. The key is to keep trying, fix your mistakes, and learn from them. People who become good coders are not always the ones who understand everything right away. They are the ones who keep working and do not give up.
Good communication and presentation skills are also helpful when learning coding When you work on projects, you may need to explain your ideas to others or work as part of a team. Being able to speak clearly, listen to others, and share your thoughts is important. You may also need to present your work to people who do not understand coding. If you can communicate well, it will help others understand your work and your ideas. In conclusion, you do not need any special knowledge or background to begin learning how to code. What you really need is a strong sense of curiosity, the ability to keep trying when things are hard, and good communication skills. With these qualities, anyone can learn to code. It is a journey that requires effort, but it can be very rewarding Many people have started with no experience and have become successful You can do it too!
Afghan Kabob House – Restaurant
3500 Watson Road, St. Louis, Missouri
Afghan Kabob House is a popular restaurant in St. Louis. It serves tasty Afghan food made with care. The owner is kind, and the service is very good. The restaurant is clean and comfortable.
One famous dish is Ashak, which is dumplings filled with leeks, served with lentils and yogurt sauce. There are also vegetarian meals like Ashak. The restaurant is easy to find and has parking nearby at 3500 Watson/Potomac. During Ramadan, they offer an Iftar buffet with many dishes, fresh rice, and black mint tea.
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
