We are excited to introduce you to the Ahmadi Family – Mohammad Ali (dad), Zarin (mom), Haleema (16), Sajaad (11). They are Hazara refugees who fled persecution in Afghanistan and our International Outreach Team is helping the family acclimate to their new life in the United States.

The Hazaras are one of the main ethnic and religious minority groups in Afghanistan, constituting around 20 percent of the population. The Hazaras have long been subjected to discrimination and persecution due to their ethnic and religious identity and are considered to be the most marginalized minority group in Afghanistan. The first Taliban rule in the 1990s was devastating for Hazaras – thousands were persecuted and massacred. And, now under Taliban rule again, the persecution has resumed.

The Ahmadis fled with their four children in April of 2022 and have settled into a two bedroom apartment near the Walmart on Tidewater Drive. Two of the Ahmadi’s children are in Richmond, VA with other family members but they would like to relocate here if they can find a larger apartment. Zarin has been working at London Bridge Trading Company in Virginia Beach and Mohammad Ali is looking for employment . Both kids are in school and are also taking English language classes.

We are thrilled to be able to welcome this family and help them find community in Hampton Roads. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP AND HELP