From Afghanistan to Scotland: Ahmad and Afsana’s Journey to Safety
Ahmad's path to safety began on an ordinary day at his workplace in Afghanistan. As he wrapped up his morning tasks and contemplated lunch, the office's security team delivered startling news—the Taliban had taken control. They urged everyone to evacuate immediately and make their way home.
With an uncertain future looming in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan and deteriorating living conditions, Ahmad and his wife, Afsana*, recognized the urgency to seek refuge elsewhere. They embarked on a perilous journey from Afghanistan to Pakistan, only to discover that Afghan refugees in Pakistan faced severe limitations on their civil rights and employment opportunities, further disrupting their lives.
Partnerships for good
Ahmad registered on TBB’s Talent Catalog amid these challenges. Within weeks, SHARP Pakistan, a TBB partner organization, reached out to Ahmad, presenting a life-changing opportunity. The SHARP representative carefully reviewed Ahmad's CV and extended an invitation to interview for a Scottish legal employer in Glasgow. This marked the chance Ahmad and Afsana had eagerly awaited – a direct pathway to safety and the opportunity for a fresh start.
Their case was exceptional, made possible through the collaborative efforts of TBB, SHARP Pakistan, and UNHCR. It marked the first instance of a durable solution being unlocked through a partner organization in Asia, culminating in their journey to the UK. The couple had to gather essential documentation while packing their belongings for the new chapter ahead.
A new life in Scotland
Simultaneously, thousands of miles away, the prospective employer in Glasgow prepared to welcome Ahmad. They assigned him a mentor, created a guide to navigate Glasgow, and organized a welcoming meal for his team during his initial week at work. Upon receiving visa approval, Ahmad and Afsana swiftly secured their arrival date met at Glasgow Arrivals by their new employer. Although the flight from Pakistan to the UK lasted a mere seven hours, for Ahmad and Afsana, the journey felt far more profound.
Several months have passed since Ahmad and Afsana's arrival in Scotland, and they are gradually settling into their Glaswegian community. They've discovered elements that evoke the comforts of home, including an Afghan restaurant offering Ahmad's favorite dish, Nahari with Roti. Afsana has begun English lessons, and the couple even ventured to London for Ahmad's inaugural holiday from his new job. Ahmad actively participates in the Displaced Talent Alumni Community, sharing their experiences of coming to the UK at public events.
Reflecting on how different their lives could have been without registering on the Talent Catalog, he expresses profound gratitude to the program that transformed their circumstances.
"Without TBB and SHARP, my wife and I would still be stuck," Ahmad acknowledges.
Ahmad and Afsana acknowledge that their journey ahead may be challenging. They anticipate missing their homeland, adjusting to new surroundings, and embracing unfamiliar customs. Nevertheless, they are thankful that these are the challenges of today, and from here, they can build a brighter future.
Their story serves as a compelling testament, highlighting the immense potential of displaced talent mobility. It underscores that more candidates can access these life-altering pathways through partnerships with reputable organizations like SHARP in Pakistan.
*Names were changed to protect the candidate and their spouse’s identities.