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Fleeing the Taliban and becoming a refugee shattered the life Samandar built in Kandahar, Afghanistan. He grew up in a home filled with love, guided by faith and the values his parents lived by every day. Inspired by their dedication, Samandar set his sights on becoming a doctor one day. But when the Taliban seized control and violence consumed the city, he had to abandon his dream. Instead of planning for his future, he focused on staying alive.
For two years, Samandar worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Marines, providing critical language support in Helmand, Sohrab, Marjah, and Delrin. He believed in the mission and built strong friendships along the way. But in 2021, as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, his world collapsed.
Fleeing the Taliban
When the Taliban entered Kandahar, fear spread quickly. Homes and jobs disappeared overnight. For Samandar, the danger was even greater—his work with the U.S. military made him a target. Staying hidden became a daily struggle. Then, the threats arrived. The Taliban found him, and he knew escape was his only option.
With little time to think, he gathered a few belongings and fled, leaving behind his parents, brother, and sister. The pain of separation was unbearable, but staying would have put them in even greater danger.
The Long Wait
After fleeing the Taliban and becoming a refugee, Samandar crossed into Pakistan and began a six-month wait for approval to resettle in the United States. Each day brought new uncertainty, but he stayed grounded in his faith and the values his family had taught him. He applied for a Special Immigrant Visa—available to Afghans who supported the U.S. government—and focused on the hope of a fresh start.
“I kept reminding myself that obstacles could become opportunities,” he says. “I had to believe that this journey had a purpose.”
Even when the long wait challenged his patience, he never gave up. Then, the call finally came, his heart raced. He had secured a future in the U.S.—no longer a distant dream, but a life waiting for him to step into.
A New Home, A New Hope
When landing in Rochester, New York, Samandar stepped into an unfamiliar world, but at the same time a sense of relief. He had made it.
World Relief staff welcomed him, offering support as he adjusted to his new life. They connected him with housing, resources, and a community of Afghans who, like him, were rebuilding from nothing.
“We lost our homes, our jobs, and even the ease of speaking our language,” he reflects. “But we gained a new perspective on life.”
Determined to adapt, Samandar practiced English daily, found work, and set new goals. His biggest dream now is to become a nurse, buy a home, and one day reunite with his family in the U.S.
“I won’t stop dreaming because of what happened,” he says. “I was given a second chance, and I wish the same for every person forced to flee.”
Why Welcome Matters
Samandar’s journey is one of resilience, sacrifice, and the power of a welcoming community. Every day, refugees like him arrive in the United States searching for safety and a fresh start.
At World Relief, we believe no one should navigate this journey alone. With the support of volunteers, donors, and advocates, we can help families rebuild and thrive.
Will you be part of the welcome?
Learn how you can help refugee families like Samandar’s find hope and a future. Get Involved Today.
By: Angie Matiz, Communications and PR Manager
Samandar’s journey is one of five stories that come to life in our Refugee Simulation, which is available at 420 Winton Road N, Rochester, NY. This immersive experience sheds light on the challenges and resilience of those rebuilding their lives in our community.
If you’re inspired to take action, getting involved with World Relief can transform the lives of hundreds of families right here in Rochester. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or giving, your engagement makes a tangible impact.
- Contact us at 585-563-7175 to learn how you can be part of this life-changing work.
- Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming community events and opportunities to connect.
- Share this post with your friends and let others know about our work.