Try to understand people, and to listen to them, and to educate yourself.
Ashraf Saad is an advocate for refugees in Alamance County, dedicating his life to helping refugees resettle and find their place. Immediately following U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the regime change, Ashraf attempted to leave the country. Unfortunately, the airport had been damaged and civilians were being evacuated by helicopters. Ashraf almost made it to the airport, but he was tear gassed before making it inside. A few weeks later, Ashraf and a few friends were able to exit Afghanistan unharmed to continue their immigration processing.
Ashraf draws on his own lived experience of the immigration process to help others who have similar stories. By helping new refugees navigate employment opportunities, find safe housing, and adjust to the cultural changes, Ashraf provides refugees with the support they need to start their new lives.
Ashraf wishes the world knew that, though all refugees have unique feelings upon arrival, there is often a sense of uncertainty that deserves to be met with compassion. Ashraf argues that society must see the “human side” of the immigration process in order to learn more about it and better serve the people who have taken various routes to arrive in Alamance county, or in any community.