By Nabi Safi | Former Client, AsylumWorks

My story is one of resilience, uncertainty, and hope—of crossing continents not just to seek safety, but to find purpose. Today, I write this reflection from Arlington, Virginia, as an Advisor at the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington, D.C.—a position I once only dreamed about while walking the dusty streets of Afghanistan.

I was born and raised in Afghanistan and spent most of my life serving international organizations, including the U.S. and EU missions. But in August 2021, everything changed. As the Taliban overtook our government, I—like thousands of others—was forced to leave behind everything: my home, my family, and the country I dedicated my career to supporting. I left without saying goodbye, with only memories in my heart and uncertainty in my hands.

My journey out of Afghanistan was surreal. I boarded a U.S. military aircraft in the dead of night, packed with people like me—interpreters, advisors, and civil servants. There were no windows, no clear destination. Our first stop was a military base in Kuwait. I remember being parched, standing on an open tarmac under the scorching desert sun, waiting for guidance and a bottle of water that would bring me a moment of peace amidst the chaos.

Eventually, we were flown to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin visited us. They thanked us for our service and reminded us that our contributions were valued. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

I arrived in the United States on September 10, 2021 and spent four and a half months at Fort Dix in New Jersey. Arriving with nothing, I felt I had to start over. I wanted to move forward, but I didn’t know how to begin rebuilding. Then one day, a U.S. Space Force member named Miller gave me a piece of advice that stayed with me: “If you want to achieve the American dream, you must be strong, skilled, and prepared to compete.”

And so I did.

I began working as an interpreter for Afghan refugees in Virginia—supporting them with immigration assistance, social services, legal education, and resettlement support. In early 2023, I was accepted into American Public University’s master’s program in International Relations and Global Security. I focused on Peace and Conflict Resolution, determined to use my experiences to make a meaningful impact in global diplomacy.

One day, while looking for career assistance, I visited the Northern Virginia Afghan Support Center event organized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in partnership with local partner agencies. There, I met a case manager from AsylumWorks who told me about their employment program. Not long after, I was connected with AsylumWorks Employment Specialist Deja Petty. Deja was more than a job coach to me. She became a mentor and friend. For six months, we worked together tirelessly. Her guidance, encouragement, and practical support transformed my job search from daunting to achievable.

And finally, the right opportunity arrived.

In 2025, I was hired as an Academic Advisor for the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington, D.C.—a role that aligns with my passion and academic background. For someone who arrived in America with no certainty – only ambition – this was a dream come true.

To the incredible team at AsylumWorks in Washington, D.C.—especially Deja—thank you. Your belief in me has helped me to believe in myself.

To others walking a similar path: you can go from the margins to the center, from survival to purpose, from dusty roads to marble halls. Let this story be your proof that no dream is too big when resilience is your guide and support is within reach.